ISLAMABAD:
The United States has announced new programs to promote energy cooperation with Pakistan, including a $500,000 project to restore electrical infrastructure in flood-affected areas of Sindh.
Other initiatives include a grant to expand research and development on electric vehicles at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and support for the second cohort of the US-Pakistan Women’s Council’s Women’s Futures Energy Scholars Program, launched with Texas A&M University. support women’s leadership in renewable energy.
A joint statement on this was made at the conclusion of the US-Pakistan Energy Security Dialogue chaired by Federal Energy Minister Khurram Dastgir and US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey Pyatt. The dialogue ended on Wednesday.
The United States and Pakistan reaffirmed their mutual commitment to advancing the transition to renewable energy and promoting a sustainable, secure, and prosperous energy future.
During the dialogue, officials and experts discussed energy issues and areas of cooperation, including Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy sources, electric vehicles and increasing the participation of women in the energy sector.
The two governments decided to continue deepening the bilateral partnership through the framework of the US-Pakistan Green Alliance, which will help both countries jointly address climate, environmental and economic needs, particularly through renewable, sustainable and clean energy partnerships.
“For more than 50 years, the United States has invested in Pakistan’s electricity generation, including clean energy through hydropower, which continues to benefit millions of Pakistanis today,” the statement said.
As part of the dialogue, the two governments committed to work together in the coming year to help Pakistan achieve its goal of 60% renewable energy by 2030.
The next US-Pakistan Energy Security Dialogue will be held by the US in 2024.
In a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Geoffrey Pyatt, they reaffirmed their commitment to economic growth, energy security, partnership in long-term flood recovery efforts and strengthening their overall relationship.
While appreciating the ongoing Pakistan-US Energy Security Dialogue, the Prime Minister supported further investment in Pakistan’s energy infrastructure to support the clean energy transition.
He welcomed dialogue and cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, health, security and climate change.
Monica Medina, Assistant Secretary of the US State Department for Oceans, Environment and Science, who is also on an official visit to Pakistan, informed the Prime Minister during the meeting that she is leading a delegation to the meeting of the Pak-US Working Group on Climate and Environment.
He praised Pakistan’s commitment and dedication in responding to last year’s devastating floods. (with additional APP input)
Published in The Express Tribune on March 16th2023.
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