Page 292 from FCO 177-540

Pakistan and China have reached an agreement for China to supply Pakistan with a 300MW nuclear power plant, which will operate under IAEA safeguards. The agreement was signed by the Chairman of the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission and his Chinese counterpart. Pakistan's Prime Minister emphasized that the plant is solely for peaceful energy generation purposes and will adhere to IAEA safeguards. China had initially committed to supplying the reactor in 1989, but there were delays due to technical difficulties and international pressure. The installation of the reactor is expected to be completed within six to seven years. Pakistan sees this agreement as a further reassurance of their strong ties with China and their energy needs.