Key points
- Talks with ADB President focus on stability, privatisation, and energy sector modernisation
- Discussions with Menzies Aviation explore investment and airport operations
- Meetings underscore Pakistan’s commitment to investment-led growth
ISLAMABAD: On the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held a series of high-level meetings focused on advancing Pakistan’s economic reform agenda and promoting investment-led growth.
The engagements signalled Islamabad’s intent to align macroeconomic stability with actionable partnerships in key sectors.
Engagement with the Asian Development Bank
The Finance Minister met with Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda to review ongoing reforms and explore ways to deepen Pakistan’s partnership with ADB. The discussion highlighted Pakistan’s phase of economic transformation and growing market confidence.
Senator Aurangzeb briefed the ADB President on improvements across key indicators, including easing inflation, declining policy rates, strengthening foreign exchange reserves, and improving investor sentiment. Structural reforms, particularly privatisation and private sector participation, were a key focus. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination on sustainable and inclusive growth initiatives, including modernising the energy sector and promoting clean energy solutions.
Earlier, the Finance Minister also met with Menzies Aviation Chairperson Hassan El Houry to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s aviation sector. Discussions focused on improving airport services, operational efficiency, and supporting the privatisation plans, including Pakistan International Airlines and outsourcing at major airports in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.
El Houry highlighted Pakistan as a promising destination for aviation investment and underscored the strategic importance of Sialkot in aviation and logistics. Both sides discussed enhancing airport service quality and fostering private sector participation in the sector.
These engagements reflect Pakistan’s broader push to attract private investment and strengthen international partnerships. Finance Minister Aurangzeb’s meetings demonstrate the country’s commitment to reform-driven economic growth, signalling stability and openness to long-term collaboration with development partners and global investors.
