Bangkok: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, recently engaged in discussions with H.E. Lan Fo’an, Minister of Finance of the People’s Republic of China, during the World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meetings 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. The dialogue aimed at fortifying bilateral financial cooperation, broadening access to international capital markets, and promoting regional economic collaboration.

According to Press Information Department, Senator Aurangzeb emphasized Pakistan’s advancements towards macroeconomic stability, acknowledging China’s enduring support during economically challenging periods. The Chinese Finance Minister commended Pakistan’s strengthened economic stance and renewed global financial market access.

The meeting reviewed Pakistan’s successful inaugural Panda Bond issuance, which received regulatory support and credit enhancement from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), featuring a competitive 2.5% coupon and robust investor interest. Senator Aurangzeb reiterated Pakistan’s ambition to maintain a continuous presence in the Chinese capital market as a recurring sovereign issuer. Discussions included Pakistan’s re-entry into the Eurobond market after a four-year hiatus and plans for additional Panda Bond issuances under the approved RMB 7.2 billion program, with ongoing AIIB backing.

The Ministers also discussed Pakistan’s leadership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), including preparations for the upcoming summit and the SCO Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Islamabad. H.E. Lan Fo’an expressed his intent to attend the ministerial meeting in Islamabad.

Further talks addressed the proposed establishment of the SCO Development Bank, highlighting its significance for regional financial cooperation. The Chinese side encouraged Pakistan’s active involvement in consultations and consensus-building for the proposed institution. Senator Aurangzeb confirmed Pakistan’s commitment to facilitating the bank’s establishment.

Bilateral infrastructure cooperation was another focal point, with discussions on the progress towards consensus regarding proposed adjustments to a China-Pakistan highway project route.

Regarding digital transformation and skills development, Senator Aurangzeb briefed his Chinese counterpart on Pakistan’s collaboration with Alibaba to enhance digital transformation and artificial intelligence skills training. He reiterated the Government of Pakistan’s dedication to executing the cooperation framework and strengthening collaboration in these areas.