Karachi: The Energy Department of the Government of Sindh recently hosted senior civil service officers from Bangladesh as part of an Executive Development Programme organized by the Civil Services Academy in Lahore. This visit aimed to foster institutional learning and regional cooperation, focusing on the exchange of best practices in the energy sector.

According to Chief Minister Sindh, the delegation included senior officials from the Government of Bangladesh, led by Dr. Syed Shabbir Akbar Zaidi. The visit focused on strategic discussions regarding Sindh’s energy initiatives, specifically its infrastructure development and the Thar Coal projects. The programme was coordinated with the National Institute of Public Administration in Karachi.

Secretary Energy, Mr. Shahab Qamar Ansari, welcomed the Bangladeshi delegation, emphasizing Sindh’s role in Pakistan’s energy security through renewable energy and coal development. Special Secretary Energy Department, Mr. Aslam Soomro, provided insights into government initiatives related to renewable energy and oil and gas sectors.

Managing Director of the Thar Coal and Energy Board, Mr. Tariq Ali Shah, presented on the development of the Thar Coalfield, which holds an estimated 175 billion tons of lignite coal reserves. The presentation highlighted the contribution of operational projects in the region to the national grid and the socio-economic initiatives aimed at uplifting the Thar region.

The Bangladeshi officers expressed interest in Sindh’s renewable energy and Thar Coal projects, recognizing the importance of regional cooperation and knowledge sharing for sustainable energy development in South Asia.