FinMin Aurangzeb Affirms IMF Can’t Set Conditions Against Pakistan’s Interests
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has made it clear that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cannot impose any terms that go against Pakistan’s interests. He said this during a press conference in Washington, alongside senior officials.
Aurangzeb explained that all reforms under the IMF programme align with Pakistan’s own goals. According to him, these steps have strengthened the economy and improved investor confidence.
He confirmed that Pakistan expects to receive the next IMF tranche of $1.2 billion by December 31. The IMF Executive Board is likely to approve the agreement soon, paving the way for disbursement.
In addition, Aurangzeb revealed that a trade and tariff agreement with the United States is expected within two weeks.
New Deals and Future Plans
The finance minister said the government is close to finalising the privatisation of New York’s Roosevelt Hotel. He witnessed the signing of a swap agreement between the State Bank of Pakistan and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). The event took place on the sidelines of the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, DC.
Aurangzeb praised IFC’s decision to designate Pakistan as a regional hub, calling it a strong vote of confidence in the country’s potential. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding cooperation with IFC, especially in finance, energy, and development sectors.
He also mentioned progress on the Reko Diq project and welcomed the expected participation of the EXIM Bank. In addition, he appreciated IFC’s support in digital payments, pharmaceuticals, and electric vehicles.
Strengthening Global Ties
Aurangzeb took part in the 15th V20 Ministerial Dialogue on “Cost of Capital, Debt, and Growth Pathways.” He discussed the increasing impact of floods in Pakistan and highlighted the government’s ongoing relief efforts.
He praised support from the CVF–V20 Secretariat in preparing Pakistan’s Climate Prosperity Plan (CPP). He also called for faster action on the Loss and Damage Fund and the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to help vulnerable countries.
Finally, Aurangzeb met with JP Morgan’s senior team, sharing details of Pakistan’s upcoming Panda Bond launch in China. He said it would be issued as a green bond to support sustainable growth.
