Islamabad: The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan, H.E. Ms. Natalie Baker, met with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, to discuss bilateral economic relations and opportunities for strengthened cooperation between the two nations. The meeting, held at the Finance Division, focused on enhancing investment and economic ties.
According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister shared insights from his recent visit to Washington, where he engaged with U.S. financial institutions including the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). Discussions centered on bolstering financial cooperation and exploring investment opportunities for projects in Pakistan.
The Minister also updated Ms. Baker on the progress of discussions with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) concerning a reciprocal trade framework. He emphasized Pakistan’s aim for increased market access and enhanced bilateral trade. The talks included expanding U.S. financial institutions’ involvement in Pakistan’s investment landscape, with a focus on developing appropriate financing structures.
The conversation extended to sectors such as energy, telecommunications, digital technology, and artificial intelligence. Ms. Baker expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s economic resilience amidst regional conflicts and rising energy prices, while the Finance Minister highlighted government initiatives to maintain economic stability and growth.
The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires reaffirmed support for Pakistan’s economic reform agenda, underscoring continued interest in strengthening trade and investment ties, particularly in key sectors of the Pakistani economy.