ISLAMABAD—Pakistan’s pursuit of long-term economic stability received a boost with a high-level meeting between Federal Minister for Finance, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and the UK Minister for Development, Baroness Chapman, in Islamabad. The British High Commissioner, Jane Marriott, and senior UK officials also attended the session.
According to the official statement, Pakistan extended its gratitude for the United Kingdom’s continued support towards the successful completion of the crucial International Monetary Fund (IMF) program. The two sides engaged in extensive discussions on achieving economic stability and accelerating structural reforms within the country.
Key areas of focus during the meeting included vital reforms in the energy sector, effective debt management strategies, overhauling state-owned enterprises, and implementing necessary pension reforms to ensure fiscal sustainability. The Finance Minister emphasized the need to enhance fiscal discipline and increase the financial space available for crucial social sectors such as health and education.
Minister Aurangzeb informed the UK delegation of the government’s progress, noting that efforts to expand the tax base and leverage technology are improving revenue collection. He stressed the importance of aligning development spending with national priorities.
Baroness Chapman assured the Pakistani government of the UK’s continued support for governance reforms, digitalization initiatives, and efforts to create a conducive investment climate. The discussion also touched upon the critical areas of women’s economic inclusion and policy options related to population management. Both nations agreed to maintain high-level engagement and strengthen collaboration with the private sector moving forward.
