Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, addressed the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan (MENAP) meeting with the IMF Managing Director on Pakistan’s economic progress and regional challenges, on the sidelines of the World Bank Group–IMF Annual Meetings 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
The Finance Minister highlighted a fiscal deficit at a 22-year low, three consecutive years of primary surpluses and economic growth of 3.7%. He noted historic-high foreign exchange reserves covering three months of imports, and stronger buffers against climate and regional shocks. He cited sovereign rating upgrades, the September Eurobond issuance and the October 7 IMF staff-level agreement as evidence of progress.
He reaffirmed commitment to reforms and targeted, budget-neutral and time-bound subsidies to protect low-income groups and preserve social cohesion. He also called for diversified energy sources and trade routes, deeper regional integration, and investment in logistics and food systems.
The Finance Minister emphasized renewed commitment to multilateralism and Pakistan's readiness to contribute actively to regional cooperation.
