WASHINGTON, D.C.: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, engaged in discussions with Anna Bjerde, Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank Group, focusing on the economic outlook of Pakistan and the ongoing reform agenda.

According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting, held in Washington, D.C., centered on the country’s economic strategies, particularly in managing the consequences of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Bjerde expressed appreciation for the World Bank’s consistent support of Pakistan’s reform and development efforts.

Both parties emphasized the necessity of enhancing social protection measures to safeguard vulnerable populations against external economic shocks. The discussions also included a review of the progress made under the Country Partnership Framework. While acknowledging advancements in several key areas, Aurangzeb and Bjerde highlighted the need for ongoing commitment to fully realize the framework’s objectives.

The Finance Minister pointed out Pakistan’s demographic challenges and stressed the need for a coordinated approach between federal and provincial governments. He requested the World Bank Group’s assistance in creating a comprehensive master plan to address these challenges.