Washington, D.C.: The Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, convened with Mr. Jihad Azour, the Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), to discuss the progress of Pakistan’s reform initiatives and the broader economic outlook. This meeting took place on the sidelines of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026.

According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister highlighted the successful Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) with the IMF and expressed anticipation for its prompt approval by the IMF Executive Board. This approval is seen as crucial to maintaining the momentum of Pakistan’s ongoing reform agenda.

Senator Aurangzeb informed Mr. Azour about the economic repercussions of the ongoing Middle East conflict, describing it as a considerable supply shock affecting economic growth and inflation. He assured that the government is actively addressing these challenges.

Additionally, the Finance Minister pointed out Pakistan’s recent Eurobond repayment and reiterated the government’s commitment to meeting bilateral and multilateral external obligations. Discussions also encompassed fiscal and structural reforms, focusing on enhancing revenue mobilization and ensuring macroeconomic stability for sustainable economic growth.