Pakistan finance minister discusses economic outlook and reforms with world bank officials

Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, began his engagements at the World Bank–IMF Spring Meetings 2026 in Washington, D.C., with a series of meetings focused on economic reforms, financing strategies, and external economic pressures.

In his first meeting with Anna Bjerde, Managing Director (Operations) of the World Bank Group, the finance minister discussed Pakistan’s economic outlook and the impact of ongoing global uncertainties, including the effects of the conflict in the Middle East. Both sides reviewed the country’s development priorities and agreed on the importance of strengthening social protection systems to support vulnerable segments of society during economic shocks.

The discussions also covered progress under the Country Partnership Framework (CPF). While both sides acknowledged progress in several areas, they stressed the need for continued efforts to fully meet the framework’s objectives. The minister emphasized the importance of coordination between federal and provincial governments to address demographic challenges and requested World Bank support for developing a comprehensive national master plan.

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In a separate meeting with World Bank Vice President Jorge Familiar Calderón, the finance minister highlighted Pakistan’s evolving financing strategy, including increased use of Sukuk, ESG-linked instruments, and efforts to access non-traditional funding markets. He also outlined plans to deepen domestic capital markets as part of broader financial sector reforms.

Senator Aurangzeb underscored the importance of technical assistance, capacity building, and knowledge exchange to strengthen Pakistan’s Debt Management Office. He called for enhanced analytical tools and training support to improve long-term financial resilience and debt sustainability.

The minister also informed that Pakistan has designated an official focal person within the Debt Management Office to coordinate ongoing collaboration with the World Bank Group.

Officials said the meetings reflect Pakistan’s continued engagement with international financial institutions as part of its broader reform and economic stabilization agenda.