WASHINGTON: Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, on the sidelines of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington D.C. to discuss strengthening economic cooperation and development support.
The Finance Minister recalled Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar’s productive engagement with Mr. Banga during the recent UN General Assembly session and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the World Bank.
Senator Aurangzeb briefed Mr. Banga on the government’s comprehensive flood response strategy, expressing appreciation for the Bank’s timely support following the completion of post-flood damage assessments.
He also endorsed proposals to leverage technology platforms and cooperatives to enhance outreach to small farmers and strengthen agricultural resilience.
The Finance Minister thanked the World Bank for its technical assistance in formulating Pakistan’s Tariff Policy. He further highlighted the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with provincial governments to implement the Country Partnership Framework (CPF), aimed at advancing inclusive and sustainable development across key sectors.
During the meeting, Senator Aurangzeb requested additional support through the International Development Association (IDA) windows in light of reduced allocations.
He also emphasized the importance of adopting a holistic and integrated approach to reforming Pakistan’s gas and power sectors to ensure long-term sustainability and operational efficiency.