The South Asia Regional Vice President (SARVP) of the World Bank, Mr. Martin Raiser, engaged in discussions with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, at the Finance Division today. Joining the meeting were World Bank Country Director, Mr. Najy Benhassine, and senior officials from Finance and Economic Affairs Divisions.
The Finance Minister provided an overview of the country’s macroeconomic situation and the government’s efforts toward economic stabilization. Highlighting priority reform areas, he emphasized increasing the tax to GDP ratio, reducing energy sector costs, state-owned enterprise (SOE) reforms, privatization, and human capital development.
Mr. Raiser commended Pakistan’s commitment to economic reforms and reaffirmed the World Bank’s willingness to offer technical assistance and financial support to aid the country in achieving its developmental goals.
In response to the Finance Minister’s request, Mr. Raiser expressed readiness to align the World Bank’s country partnership framework with Pakistan’s reform priorities. He assured support for energy sector reforms, export promotion, microfinance, climate resilience building, and social protection initiatives.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing their dedication to bolstering the partnership for the advancement of Pakistan’s economy and its populace.
