Bangkok: Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, addressed international investors at the Citi Macro Forum, detailing the country’s economic trajectory and reform initiatives.

According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister presented an optimistic view of Pakistan’s economy, underscoring achievements in macroeconomic stabilization with three consecutive years of primary surpluses and a fiscal deficit at its lowest in 22 years. He noted that foreign exchange buffers have strengthened, and anticipated economic growth might reach or exceed 4% in the current fiscal year.

During the session, the Minister elaborated on Pakistan’s capital market strategy, which includes plans for additional Panda bond issuances, Sukuk, and a rupee-denominated, dollar-settled international bond. These measures aim to diversify funding sources, reduce borrowing costs, and extend debt maturities. Progress under the IMF programme, alongside efforts to expand the tax base, enhance enforcement, and improve provincial coordination, was also discussed as part of maintaining fiscal discipline.

The Finance Minister addressed the potential economic impacts of the Middle East conflict, outlining strategies to ensure energy supplies and deliver targeted relief to vulnerable populations within the constraints of existing budgetary allocations. Additionally, conversations at the forum included topics of climate resilience, disaster readiness, and optimizing development financing.

Aurangzeb reiterated Pakistan’s dedication to ongoing reforms and emphasized a strategic shift from aid to trade and investment in international collaborations.