Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, during his visit to the United States, held a series of key meetings aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s financial stability, advancing economic reforms, and building stronger ties with global financial institutions.
The visit included discussions with the World Bank, Fitch Ratings, and a policy roundtable at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, focusing on Pakistan’s economic direction and international cooperation.
During his meeting with World Bank President Ajay Banga, the finance minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the Country Partnership Framework and appreciated the World Bank’s continued support in post-flood recovery and technical assistance for tariff policy development. He requested additional financial support under the International Development Association (IDA) and highlighted the need for technology-based initiatives to help small farmers. Aurangzeb also referred to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent meeting with the World Bank leadership, underscoring Pakistan’s goal of a long-term and productive partnership.
In his session with Fitch Ratings, the finance minister welcomed the agency’s decision to revise Pakistan’s outlook from negative to stable, describing it as a reflection of consistent progress among all major rating agencies. He briefed the Fitch team on Pakistan’s staff-level agreement with the IMF and discussed reforms in energy, privatization, and institutional efficiency. Aurangzeb also shared updates on Pakistan’s privatization drive, fiscal improvement measures, and the upcoming Panda Bond issuance in the Chinese market.
The minister further discussed trade and tariff matters with US officials, emphasizing the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability and continuity of reforms.
At the Peterson Institute for International Economics, Aurangzeb joined a roundtable titled “Pakistani Economy: Challenges, Opportunities, and Beyond,” where he spoke about the country’s economic progress, ongoing reforms, and improved fiscal discipline. He said Pakistan is working to attract investment and take advantage of emerging opportunities driven by changing regional and global dynamics.
The finance minister concluded his US visit by reaffirming Pakistan’s readiness to collaborate with international partners to strengthen its economic foundations and drive sustainable growth.
