WASHINGTON: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has commended Pakistan for its significant role in promoting peace and stability within the region and on the global stage. During a meeting in Washington D.C. with Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Guterres expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ongoing constructive engagement in international affairs.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussion between the UN Chief and the Finance Minister also covered the global economic implications of the ongoing situation in the Middle East, focusing on its effects on food and energy security in developing countries. This meeting underscored the importance of international collaboration in addressing these pressing issues.

Finance Minister Aurangzeb also announced that Pakistan has secured external financing arrangements to meet its financial obligations for the fiscal year 2026. In a separate meeting with Fitch Ratings, he outlined the government’s strategy to maintain a robust presence in international capital markets through diversified financial instruments such as Panda Bonds, Eurobonds, international Sukuk, and ESG-linked bonds. Aurangzeb expressed gratitude for Fitch’s continued engagement with Pakistan and thanked the agency for reaffirming the country’s B-credit rating.