WASHINGTON, Tuesday, April 14, 2026 (WNP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with Jihad Azour, Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), on the sidelines of the World Bank–IMF Spring Meetings 2026 to review Pakistan’s reform progress and economic outlook.

During the meeting, the finance minister appreciated the successful Staff-Level Agreement (SLA) and expressed hope for its early approval by the IMF Executive Board to maintain momentum in Pakistan’s economic reform programme.

Senator Aurangzeb briefed the IMF delegation on the economic implications of the ongoing Middle East conflict, describing it as a major supply shock with significant second- and third-order effects on growth and inflation.

He noted that the government was actively managing these challenges through coordinated policy measures.

Highlighting Pakistan’s external sector resilience, the minister underscored the successful repayment of a Eurobond and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to meeting all bilateral and multilateral obligations in a timely manner.

Both sides reviewed progress on fiscal consolidation and structural reforms, including efforts to enhance revenue mobilization, and agreed on the importance of maintaining macroeconomic stability as the foundation for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

The engagement reflects continued cooperation between Pakistan and the IMF as the country advances its reform agenda amid evolving global economic challenges.