ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is making a strategic shift from relying on aid to emphasizing trade and investment, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced. This move aims to deepen commercial relationships with bilateral partners and attract private capital, thus expanding the country’s integration with regional and global markets.

According to Radio Pakistan, Aurangzeb addressed the 9th Edition of the Leaders in Islamabad Business Summit 2026, themed “The Next Move,” through a video link. He highlighted Pakistan’s recent return to international capital markets by issuing three billion dollars in international bonds after a four-year hiatus. Investor orders nearly doubled the amount sought, with a strong showing from Asian investors, signaling increased international confidence in Pakistan.

Aurangzeb reported that Pakistan’s GDP grew by approximately 3.7 percent in the last fiscal year, with continued positive economic activity in the current fiscal year. The State Bank of Pakistan projects GDP growth between 3.5 and 4.5 percent for the current fiscal year. Looking forward, Aurangzeb stressed positioning Pakistan for the New Economy, leveraging emerging opportunities in digitalization, blockchain, and Web 3.0, by combining the country’s young, technologically adept talent with supportive policy and investment environments.

The Finance Minister also emphasized the need for permanent macroeconomic stability, citing the importance of strong fiscal and external buffers to manage domestic and external pressures. He stated that the government remains committed to protecting the gains achieved while continuing structural reforms to enhance productivity, competitiveness, and private-sector-led growth.