ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb met with a high-level US delegation led by John Mark, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs.
The delegation also included US Chargé d’Affaires Netaly A. Baker. The meeting focused on Pakistan’s economic situation, reform agenda, and long-term bilateral cooperation with the United States.
According to a statement issued by the Finance Ministry, Minister Aurangzeb briefed the delegation on Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability and ongoing reforms. He highlighted the reduction in fiscal deficit, improvement in the current account, and progress in credit ratings.
Speaking to the delegation, Aurangzeb said that increased remittances and IT exports have supported Pakistan’s external accounts. He stressed the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline and maintaining external stability. He also noted that reforms and right-sizing in state-owned enterprises are being accelerated, while growing private sector participation is boosting investor confidence.
The statement added that the US appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to maintain financial stability and emphasised that enhancing the investment climate remains a shared priority.
John Mark stated that the American business community is closely monitoring Pakistan’s reform process and that policy continuity would strengthen trade ties. US officials reiterated their commitment to supporting a conducive environment for foreign investment and assured continued engagement with the US Chamber of Commerce and the American Business Council.
Finance Minister Aurangzeb also briefed the delegation on preparations for Pakistan’s return to global capital markets, including the issuance of Panda Bonds and strategies to diversify financial resources.
He shared updates on the next phases of privatisation of banking and electricity distribution companies and hinted at the initiation of outsourcing processes at Islamabad Airport. Both sides agreed to further strengthen economic cooperation between Pakistan and the United States.
