The Planning Commission Deputy Chairman, Sartaj Aziz, on Monday acknowledged the United States' "cooperation" in the development of Pakistan's energy sector.

He was speaking at the inauguration of the Steering Committee for Integrated Energy Planning (IEP), attended by US Ambassador to Pakistan David Hale.

According to a statement from the US Embassy's Public Affairs department, Ambassador Hale termed the development of the IEP process in Pakistan a "significant milestone" and a part of a "roadmap to deliver more efficient and reliable energy for the people of Pakistan".

"The inauguration of the IEP Steering Committee comes at an opportune time," he said.

"As the government looks to improve [efficiency] in the energy sector, this strategic plan will help support sound energy planning at the national level by Pakistani authorities."

Aziz said he hoped the project would help Pakistan become self-sufficient in the energy sector "by pursuing affordable and sustainable policies".

"I am pleased to note that both countries are moving towards [a] meaningful cooperation in the energy sector and a number of projects in the energy sector are under implementation [or being] planned," he said.