Pakistan and World Bank Reaffirm Cooperation on Reforms and Growth

Pakistan and the World Bank have reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation, with discussions focusing on economic reforms, investment and the country’s transition from stabilisation to sustainable growth.

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met World Bank representatives in Islamabad on October 23. The talks covered ways to strengthen private-sector activity, improve the regulatory environment and mobilise financing for infrastructure, according to Radio Pakistan.

The two sides also discussed privatisation, policy continuity and the need for clear rules and credible arrangements after privatisation. Infrastructure projects could be developed through suitable financing structures and collaboration with development partners, the report said.

World Bank representative Sandeep Mahajan congratulated Pakistan on restoring macroeconomic stability and praised the government’s handling of recent economic pressures linked to regional conflict. He said buffers built during stabilisation efforts and a timely policy response had helped the country manage external pressures.

The World Bank representatives stressed that sustaining these gains would require continued reforms and effective implementation. Both sides said cooperation should support macroeconomic stability, structural reforms and policy continuity, while helping turn reform progress into investment, jobs and wider economic opportunities.

The meeting’s agenda points to a continued focus on private investment and infrastructure financing as Pakistan seeks to move beyond stabilisation. The official report did not announce a new funding package or specific investment commitments.