Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, recently convened with Mr. Jamal Al Kishi, Regional CEO for the Middle East & Africa at Deutsche Bank, to discuss Pakistan’s economic outlook and explore potential for increased institutional engagement by the bank in the country.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting, also attended by Deutsche Bank’s Country Manager for Pakistan, Ali Haider Zaidi, focused on Pakistan’s economic progress and the government’s initiatives to promote structural reforms for sustainable, export-led growth. Senator Aurangzeb highlighted the improvements in Pakistan’s fiscal position, external accounts, and overall macroeconomic stability. He also noted the positive feedback from international rating agencies, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s global financial standing.

Mr. Al Kishi expressed his appreciation for the progress made in fiscal consolidation and exports over the past two years, acknowledging the strong foundation laid for further economic advancement. The discussions also covered Pakistan’s medium-term strategy for external financing, including diversifying the composition of external debt and increasing engagement with international capital markets.

The Finance Minister identified sectors such as infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, and technology as key areas for attracting international investment, particularly from Saudi-based companies. Mr. Al Kishi reiterated Deutsche Bank’s long-term commitment to Pakistan and expressed interest in expanding the bank’s operations in corporate and investment banking, as well as fostering collaboration with companies in the MENA region.

Senator Aurangzeb welcomed Deutsche Bank’s continued involvement in Pakistan, underscoring the importance of collaboration with international financial institutions to drive investment and support the country’s economic growth objectives.