Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met with China’s Finance Minister Lan Fo’an on the sidelines of the World Bank–IMF Spring Meetings 2026, where he expressed appreciation for China’s continued support, particularly its role in facilitating Pakistan’s engagements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The meetings, held from April 13 to 18 in Washington, bring together global financial leaders amid ongoing economic uncertainty.
During the meeting, Aurangzeb highlighted Pakistan’s progress under the IMF programme, including the staff-level agreement for the third review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the second review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), with final approval expected soon. He also shared updates on Pakistan’s plan to launch its inaugural Panda bond to diversify financing sources and strengthen its presence in international capital markets.
The finance minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the establishment of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Development Bank, especially as the country prepares to assume the SCO presidency later this year. He also acknowledged China’s ongoing support at both the IMF and World Bank levels.
Separately, Aurangzeb met representatives of Moody’s, briefing them on Pakistan’s external financing position, successful debt repayments, and continued commitment to meeting obligations. He outlined plans to re-enter global capital markets through instruments such as Eurobonds and dollar-settled rupee-linked bonds.
Aurangzeb also held discussions with People’s Bank of China Governor Pan Gongsheng, seeking expedited approval for the Panda bond and appreciating China’s continued financial cooperation. He highlighted measures taken by Pakistan to manage the economic impact of regional tensions, including targeted subsidies and supply chain management.
At a JP Morgan investment seminar, the finance minister engaged with global investors, sharing updates on economic reforms, energy management strategies, and Pakistan’s financing roadmap. The State Bank governor also participated in the session.
During his visit, Aurangzeb is expected to take part in over 50 high-level engagements. Meanwhile, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised Pakistan’s progress on economic reforms and macroeconomic stability, reflecting growing international confidence in the country’s policy direction.
