Sarosh Mustafa
A high-level delegation from the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) has concluded its five-day visit to Pakistan, reaffirming the country’s importance as a partner in global scientific research. The visit marked another milestone in Pakistan’s collaboration with the world’s leading particle physics laboratory, with which it has been an Associate Member State since 2015.
Visits to Key Research Institutions
Arriving on August 24, the CERN delegation visited some of Pakistan’s top scientific institutions, including:
- National Centre for Physics (NCP), Islamabad
- Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH)
- Heavy Mechanical Complex-3 (HMC-3)
- Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS)
- Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology (INMOL), Lahore
- National Institute of Lasers and Optronics (NILOP)
The team evaluated Pakistan’s contributions to accelerator technology, detector development, medical physics, and industrial applications.
Strengthening a 30-Year Partnership
Pakistan has been collaborating with CERN for more than three decades, contributing to detector construction, precision engineering, and researcher training. During the visit, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expand cooperation in cutting-edge fields such as technology transfer, capacity building, and advanced scientific research.
Recognition of Pakistani Excellence
CERN officials praised Pakistan’s role in supplying high-quality scientific manpower, technical expertise, and materials for landmark projects, including the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) and ALICE detectors. They commended Pakistani institutions for maintaining international standards in research despite resource constraints.
Future Prospects
Pakistan’s scientific leaders highlighted the importance of expanding CERN’s engagement with local universities and research centers to give more opportunities to young researchers and students. Both sides agreed to strengthen joint initiatives in particle physics, nuclear medicine, and high-performance computing.
The visit concluded on a positive note, with CERN officials expressing confidence in Pakistan’s growing role in the global scientific community.
