WASHINGTON: Federal Minister for Finance & Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, has embarked on a series of high-level official engagements in Washington.
It marked the beginning of a crucial visit to participate in the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB). The visit underscores Pakistan’s proactive approach to strengthening its economic partnerships, attracting investment, and engaging with international financial institutions at the highest level.
The Finance Minister initiated his official meetings with Riccardo Puliti, Regional Vice President of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan & Pakistan. During the discussion, Senator Aurangzeb outlined the robust macroeconomic indicators reflecting Pakistan’s economic progress and resilience.
He commended IFC’s longstanding partnership with Pakistan and acknowledged its pivotal role in mobilizing multi-billion-dollar private sector investments under the 10-year Country Partnership Framework (CPF). Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to achieving the early financial closure of IFC’s flagship Reko Diq project, which represents a significant milestone in the country’s investment landscape.
The Finance Minister also welcomed the establishment of IFC’s new regional office in Islamabad, expressing confidence that this development will enhance coordination and open new avenues for cooperation.
In a separate engagement, Senator Aurangzeb met with Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al-Jasser, President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), for a comprehensive review of bilateral development cooperation.
The Minister expressed Pakistan’s deep appreciation for IsDB’s continued support and highlighted the importance of accelerating the implementation of ongoing projects to maximize their developmental impact.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working closely with IsDB on polio eradication initiatives and the oil financing facility, both of which are vital for the country’s social and economic stability.
During the meeting, both parties agreed on the need to develop a new Country Engagement Framework (CEF) to further deepen and broaden future cooperation between Pakistan and the IsDB.
The Finance Minister’s engagements in Washington are part of a broader strategy to bolster investor confidence, secure financial support, and reinforce Pakistan’s position as an active and responsible partner in the global economic arena.
Over the course of his visit, Senator Aurangzeb is expected to hold multiple discussions with international financial institutions, development partners, and key stakeholders to advance Pakistan’s reform agenda and explore new avenues of collaboration.
