Islamabad: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) delegation, consisting of Executive Directors and Alternate Executive Directors, has reinforced its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s economic reform initiatives. This commitment was expressed during a series of meetings with Ahad Khan Cheema, Pakistan’s Minister for Economic Affairs, from October 6 to 12.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, these discussions aimed to closely align ADB’s support with the priorities of the Pakistani government. Minister Cheema detailed the robust partnership between Pakistan and the ADB, recently solidified by the visit of ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa.

During the meetings, Minister Cheema outlined the government’s comprehensive reform agenda focused on restoring macroeconomic stability and promoting sustainable growth. Key areas of reform highlighted included the digitization of the tax system to increase revenue, improvements in the energy sector, and restructuring of state-owned enterprises. Minister Cheema also emphasized the importance of ADB’s support in sectors critical to Pakistan’s development, such as climate action, infrastructure, and social uplift.

The ADB delegation reiterated their continuous support for Pakistan’s efforts to implement these structural reforms, aiming to generate fiscal space and stabilize the economy. This ongoing support underscores the deepening collaboration aimed at achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing economic stability in Pakistan.

Additionally, the delegation visited the Benazir Income Support Programme’s One Window Center in Islamabad, where they commended the efficient operations and comprehensive services provided to women beneficiaries, further highlighting the success of collaborative social welfare initiatives supported by the ADB.

The series of meetings and site visits underscore a mutual commitment to fostering economic development and social progress in Pakistan through strategic international partnerships.