By Business Desk October 18, 2025

Washington, DC Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, has underscored Pakistan’s improving economic trajectory during a series of high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., focusing on strengthening global partnerships, enhancing digital transformation, and expanding access to international capital markets.

During discussions with Dr. Adnan Chilwan, Group CEO of Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB), Senator Aurangzeb commended DIB’s consistent role as a key global partner in arranging Pakistan’s sovereign Sukuk issuances. The minister emphasized that recent progress — including the Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and credit rating upgrades by global agencies — reflects renewed investor confidence and a strengthened economic outlook for Pakistan.

Expanding Investment and Diversified Financing

Senator Aurangzeb highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing privatisation drive, including efforts related to the First Women Bank, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to diversifying funding sources through US Dollar-denominated, Panda, and Sukuk markets. He expressed confidence that continued collaboration with DIB would help boost Pakistan’s financial resilience and attract foreign capital.

In separate meetings with Sharjah Islamic Bank and Ajman Bank, the finance minister appreciated their participation in Pakistan’s latest syndicated financing initiatives, noting their vital role in sustaining financial sector confidence. He also briefed bank executives on Pakistan’s plan to launch its first-ever Panda Bond in the Chinese market, inviting them to work closely with the Debt Management Office (DMO) for further cooperation and innovative funding avenues.

Driving Pakistan’s Digital Transformation

Senator Aurangzeb also held talks with Dr. Hajar El Haddaoui, Director General of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO), to discuss Pakistan’s expanding digital economy. The discussions focused on initiatives in information technology, electronic payments, and digitisation of government services.

He welcomed DCO’s growing footprint in Pakistan and underlined the government’s vision for capacity building, digital skills training, and the development of inclusive digital ecosystems to ensure widespread economic participation.

Strengthening Global Financial Partnerships

In another meeting, Senator Aurangzeb engaged with a delegation from the Currency Exchange Fund (TCX) led by Chief Investment Officer and Deputy CEO Othman Boukrami. The group discussed TCX’s work in providing local currency financing solutions and explored ways to deepen collaboration.

The finance minister outlined Pakistan’s plans to extend debt maturities and broaden access to international markets through instruments such as Panda Bonds, Eurobonds, and international Sukuk offerings. He assured TCX representatives that the government would actively pursue follow-up discussions to enhance future cooperation.

Pakistan’s Economic Outlook

Senator Aurangzeb’s Washington engagements reaffirmed the government’s focus on macroeconomic stability, digital innovation, and sustainable foreign investment. With the IMF program on track and renewed international confidence, Pakistan is positioning itself for a robust economic recovery and long-term financial growth.