Islamabad, Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to aiding Pakistan’s socio-economic development, as stated during a meeting between Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins and Pakistani Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. The discussions focused on reinforcing the long-standing ties between the two nations and exploring new areas of economic cooperation.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the meeting highlighted mutual interests in strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in economic cooperation and trade. Finance Minister Aurangzeb emphasized the importance of these ties and discussed several initiatives aimed at enhancing Pakistan’s economic landscape, including the digitalization of the tax system with assistance from McKinsey and Company.
He also mentioned plans for privatizing state-owned enterprises and potential investments from Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Additionally, the conversation touched upon the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Neil Hawkins briefed the Finance Minister on Australia’s collaborative efforts with Pakistani Agriculture Universities to boost production in agriculture and livestock sectors.