Islamabad, 16 March 2023 (TDI): The United States (US) Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Geoffrey Pyatt recently visited Pakistan.

He led the US-Pakistan Energy Security Dialogue in Islamabad, Pakistan. This Dialogue was co-chaired by Pakistani Federal Minister for Energy, Khurram Dastgir Khan.

The dialogue aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the US and Pakistan on energy security, climate resilience, and economic growth.

Also, the officials and experts engaged on energy issues and areas for cooperation, including Pakistan’s renewable energy transition, electric vehicles, and increasing the participation of women in the energy sector.

During the dialogue, Assistant Secretary Pyatt announced the launch of the US-Pakistan Women’s Council in Energy Scholars Program, which will support women in Pakistan’s energy sector by providing mentorship, training, & educational opportunities.

The program is part of the US’ ongoing commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women in Pakistan.

The US also announced new programs in Pakistan, including a $500,000 project to restore electricity infrastructure in flood-affected areas in Sindh, and a grant to further research & development of electric vehicles at the Lahore University for Management Science.

The Green Alliance framework, a comprehensive strategy for promoting sustainable energy development in Pakistan, was also discussed during the dialogue.

The Assistant Secretary of the US reaffirmed commitment to supporting Pakistan’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development through the Green Alliance.

Speaking at the event, he said: “The United States and Pakistan share a common vision for a secure and sustainable energy future.

Through initiatives like the Women in Energy Scholars Program and the Green Alliance, we are working together to promote economic growth, reduce carbon emissions, and increase energy security in Pakistan.”

Representatives from Pakistan’s energy sector, including government officials and private sector leaders, participated in the dialogue and discussed ways to enhance cooperation with the US on energy security and climate resilience.

The US-Pakistan Energy Security Dialogue is part of the US’ ongoing efforts to strengthen its partnership with Pakistan on a range of issues, including energy security, economic growth, and regional stability.

To conclude, the Women in Energy Scholars Program and the Green Alliance are two key initiatives that demonstrate the US’ commitment to supporting Pakistan’s sustainable development goals.

The two governments committed to work together in the coming year to help Pakistan reach its goal of 60 percent renewables by 2030.