ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb has held talks with Deutsche Bank’s regional leadership on Pakistan’s economic outlook, investment opportunities and potential avenues for expanding the bank’s engagement in the country.
The meeting was held with Jamal Al Kishi, Regional CEO for the Middle East and Africa at Deutsche Bank, accompanied by Ali Haider Zaidi, Country Manager Pakistan.
During the meeting, Aurangzeb briefed the Deutsche Bank delegation on Pakistan’s recent economic progress and the government’s efforts to institutionalise structural reforms aimed at establishing a sustainable, export-led growth path.
The finance minister highlighted improvements in Pakistan’s fiscal position, external account and overall macroeconomic stability. He also pointed to positive assessments from international rating agencies and development partners.
Aurangzeb said the improvement in Pakistan’s credit profile represented an important milestone, while the government remained committed to further strengthening the country’s position in international markets.
Deutsche Bank praises Pakistan’s economic progress
Al Kishi congratulated Aurangzeb and his team on the progress achieved over the past two years, particularly in fiscal consolidation, the balance of payments, exports and remittances.
He welcomed the improvements, saying the developments had created a stronger foundation for more sustainable economic progress.
The two sides also discussed Pakistan’s medium-term external financing strategy.
Aurangzeb outlined the government’s efforts to manage and diversify the composition of external debt while deepening engagement with international capital markets and financial institutions.
He said ongoing reforms had created additional fiscal space and stressed the need to expand access to diversified sources of external financing.
Pakistan highlights investment opportunities
Aurangzeb also highlighted opportunities for international and regional investors, particularly Saudi-based companies, in several productive sectors.
These include infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, utilities, mining and minerals, technology and blockchain, among other areas.
The minister emphasised the importance of increasing private-sector participation and facilitating greater engagement by Saudi-based multinational companies seeking investment opportunities in Pakistan.
Al Kishi reaffirmed Deutsche Bank’s long-term commitment to Pakistan and expressed interest in expanding the bank’s product offering and coverage in corporate and investment banking.
He said Deutsche Bank was interested in developing a broader appetite for Pakistani exposure and further strengthening its presence in the country.
The regional CEO also highlighted opportunities to support stronger engagement between Pakistan and companies in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, particularly Saudi-based businesses, while exploring investment and financing opportunities across key sectors.
Aurangzeb welcomed Deutsche Bank’s continued engagement and appreciated its support for Pakistan.
He stressed that sustained cooperation with international financial institutions and private-sector partners would be essential to mobilise investment, deepen financial markets and support Pakistan’s long-term economic growth.
