Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, engaged in pivotal discussions with Sir Michael Barber, Founder and Chairman of Delivery Associates, focusing on Pakistan’s economic reforms and future collaboration.

According to Ministry of Finance announcement issued on 08 July 2024, the meeting was also attended by Development Director of the British High Commission Ms. Jo Moir, along with other governance and economic advisors. Sir Michael expressed his appreciation for the Federal Budget 2024-25 and the structural reforms in taxation recently implemented by Pakistan. He also discussed the priority areas under Pakistan’s homegrown economic plan and reaffirmed his commitment to continue supporting Pakistan’s developmental efforts.

Senator Aurangzeb expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment and support from the UK government. He outlined the Pakistani government’s key priority areas, including taxation reforms, energy sector reforms, and restructuring of State-Owned Enterprises. He emphasized the role of structural reforms under the IMF program and highlighted initiatives aimed at boosting exports, attracting Foreign Direct Investment, and privatization efforts. The minister also stressed the government’s focus on export-led growth and the digitalization of the Federal Board of Revenue to enhance transparency and expand the tax base.

The meeting concluded with both parties committing to enhance collaboration, focusing on achieving mutual strategic goals and fostering sustainable economic development.