New York: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, engaged in critical discussions in New York during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. The talks aimed to bolster Pakistan’s energy security, aviation cooperation, healthcare programs, and climate resilience.

According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister attended a high-level dialogue hosted by the World Economic Forum focused on energy security amid geopolitical conflicts. He highlighted Pakistan’s solar energy expansion and its impact on reducing fuel import dependency. The Minister underscored the broader economic implications of energy security, linking it to food security and economic resilience.

In a separate engagement, the Finance Minister met Dr. Brendan Nelson, President of Boeing Global, to discuss PIA’s fleet modernization and aviation sector cooperation. Boeing confirmed a revised proposal for new aircraft acquisition and explored options for earlier delivery slots and interim leasing. Discussions also included financing support, engine procurement, and aviation safety, as well as the restoration of direct flights to the United States.

The Minister also conferred with a representative from Abbott’s Pharmaceuticals Division on Pakistan’s Hepatitis C program and related pharmaceutical issues. He expressed concerns over the program’s slow progress and credited Abbott’s technical support. The meeting addressed regulatory capacity, export diversification, and oncology treatment plans, emphasizing the balance between affordability and supply continuity.

Participating in the “Solutions Dialogue on Climate Finance” hosted by the UN, the Finance Minister highlighted Pakistan’s climate vulnerability and the need for credible adaptation frameworks. He advocated for a diversified financing approach and urged international institutions to streamline procedures for accessing climate finance.

Senator Aurangzeb’s engagements underscored Pakistan’s focus on economic priorities and strengthened international partnerships, exploring further cooperation opportunities in energy, aviation, healthcare, and climate finance.