Pakistan's economic future: Finance Minister's Washington talks

By Ikram Ullah Joyia

Federal Minister for Finance, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, has arrived in Washington DC to participate in the annual IMF and World Bank meetings. Upon arrival, the Finance Minister began his official meetings in Washington.

The Finance Minister met with IFC Regional Vice President, Riccardo Puliti, discussing Pakistan's strong economic indicators. Aurangzeb appreciated IFC's role in promoting private sector investment in Pakistan and expressed satisfaction over billions of dollars in investments under the 10-year Country Partnership Framework.

Both leaders agreed on the early financial completion of the Reko Diq project. The Finance Minister welcomed the establishment of IFC's regional office in Islamabad.

Aurangzeb also met with Islamic Development Bank President, Dr Muhammad Sulaiman Al-Jasser, thanking him for the bank's long-term support to Pakistan. They emphasized timely completion of ongoing projects.

The IDB Board's approval for financing two sections of the M-6 motorway was welcomed. Both sides agreed to further cooperate on polio eradication and oil supply projects. They also agreed to develop a new Country Engagement Framework (CEF) for Pakistan.