Islamabad: During a series of high-level meetings in Washington DC, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb discussed advancements in Pakistan’s financial infrastructure with leaders from VISA, Natixis, and Google, emphasizing the government’s commitment to modernizing the nation’s payments ecosystem and attracting global investment.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister Aurangzeb praised VISA’s efforts in modernizing Pakistan’s payment systems, particularly noting the launch of the Financial Inclusion Card in collaboration with Meezan Bank. Discussions with VISA also touched on enhancing routing choices and ensuring equitable transaction processing for domestic players like 1Link, aiming to boost financial inclusion and support local entrepreneurs.

In another meeting, Mohammad Kallala, Global Head of Corporate and Investment Banking Business at Natixis, briefed the Finance Minister on the bank’s involvement in sectors such as infrastructure and renewables, and discussed potential partnerships with Gulf investors to support Pakistan’s economic development. Kallala highlighted Natixis’ strategy to work with leading Pakistani companies, fostering significant investment opportunities.

Additionally, Google’s Karan Bhatia reviewed the company’s recent initiatives in Pakistan with Minister Aurangzeb, outlining plans to deepen investments and address regulatory and connectivity challenges. The Minister assured Google of Pakistan’s support to facilitate its expansion and contributions within the country.

These meetings underscore Pakistan’s proactive approach in collaborating with global corporations to enhance its economic landscape, improve financial services, and secure international investments for future growth.