Over 150 experts, industry leaders, scholars, and U.S. exchange alumni recently gathered at Islamabad for the two-day international PUAN conference “Powering Progress: U.S.–Pakistan Synergy in Energy and Mineral Resources.” Organized in collaboration with Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and supported by the U.S. Mission to Pakistan, the conference explored new pathways for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth across Pakistan’s energy and mineral sectors.

Reflecting on the event’s impact, Heidi Smith, Director Public Engagement at the U.S. Embassy Pakistan, noted, “This conference showcases the power of people-to-people partnerships. Pakistan’s U.S. exchange alumni continue to drive innovation and bridge professional communities in ways that strengthen both countries.”

The participants also took part in high-level plenaries on U.S.–Pakistan partnerships, interactive breakout sessions focused on sustainability, governance, and investment, and a series of exposure visits to key national institutions including the Ministry of Planning, NEECA, SDPI and PIDE, offering alumni firsthand insights into policy processes and energy efficiency frameworks. The conference also featured a networking dinner that connected alumni with U.S. and local industry leaders, along with masterclasses and technical sessions examining innovation, policy challenges, and energy transition opportunities.

PUAN remains committed to empowering alumni, fostering meaningful dialogue, and advancing U.S.–Pakistan cooperation for sustainable development and shared progress.

Hit the flickr link to see pictures from out international two-day conference.