Washington D.C, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Masood Khan, acknowledged the challenges faced by Pakistan in the past year and expressed optimism for the country’s future during an event at Pakistan House. The event was held in honor of representatives from various International Financial Institutions (IFIs), including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), International Finance Corporation (IFC), World Bank (WB), and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).

According to Embassy of Pakistan – Washington D.C, Ambassador Khan thanked the IFIs for their steadfast support during Pakistan’s difficult economic period. He cited the resilience and growth of the Pakistani middle class and the rapid increase in human capital as reasons for confidence in the country’s future.

Nathan Porter, IMF Mission Chief to Pakistan, speaking at the event, expressed satisfaction with the recently concluded staff level agreement with Pakistan. He commended the current government’s actions and policies aimed at stabilizing the country.

Athanasios Arvanitis, Deputy Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the IMF, also spoke at the event, expressing hope that upcoming elections in Pakistan would mark the beginning of a reform process addressing structural issues.

Ambassador Khan highlighted the digitization of Pakistan’s economy as a driver of new opportunities, particularly for the country’s youth and professionals. He praised Pakistani professionals working in IFIs for their achievements and contributions, underscoring their role in the nation’s progress.

Bahador Bijani, Executive Director at the IMF, commented on the overall improvement in Pakistan’s economic situation, noting the effectiveness of the Pakistani authorities’ efforts. He emphasized Pakistan’s significance in the region and the world.

Syed Ali Abbas, Advisor Mission Chief UK, European Department at the IMF, echoed these sentiments, expressing hope that the completion of Pakistan’s electoral process would lead to a long-term and sustainable approach to changing the country’s trajectory.

Other speakers, including Aftab Qureshi from the World Bank and Sidra Rehman from the IMF, assured their continued cooperation with Pakistan. Ambassador Khan concluded the event by thanking the members of the IFIs and looking forward to ongoing collaboration with development partners.