Washington: Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb commenced his visit to Washington, D.C., engaging in a series of significant meetings on the sidelines of the 2025 Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group. These discussions focused on Pakistan’s macroeconomic strategies and potential international collaborations.
In his initial meeting, Minister Aurangzeb conversed with a delegation from Deloitte, briefing them on Pakistan’s economic outlook, development agenda, and growth objectives. The talks delved into possible partnerships in sectors such as energy reform, minerals, privatization, and technology. The Minister welcomed Deloitte’s upcoming visit to Pakistan to advance these dialogues.
Subsequently, the Finance Minister met with Ms. Hela Cheikhrouhou from the International Finance Corporation (IFC). They discussed various reform initiatives and the IFC’s role in financing the Reko Diq mining project. The Minister emphasized the need for local community benefits from these economic activities.
In discussions with IMF Managing Director Ms. Kristalina Georgieva, Minister Aurangzeb expressed gratitude for the staff-level agreement under the Extended Fund Facility and a new arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to reforms and invited Ms. Georgieva to visit Pakistan.
Meeting with Mr. Robert Kaproth of the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Minister Aurangzeb highlighted Pakistan’s economic improvements and reforms. He stressed the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework’s role in addressing critical challenges like population growth and climate resilience.
The Finance Minister also met Mr. Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group, expressing appreciation for the World Bank’s support and leadership. They discussed the strategic roadmap of the Country Partnership Framework, focusing on sustainable economic stability.
At a luncheon hosted by the US-Pakistan Business Council, Minister Aurangzeb engaged with American corporate leaders, discussing Pakistan’s economic reforms and regional trade. He expressed gratitude for their involvement in the Pakistan Mineral Investment Forum 2025.
Concluding his day, the Minister met with H.E. Mohamed Nasheed of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, appreciating collaborative efforts on the Climate Prosperity Plan. He highlighted the World Bank’s long-term partnership in addressing climate and population challenges and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to climate-resilient projects.