WASHINGTON, Monday, April 13, 2026 (WNP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Makhtar Diop on the sidelines of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026, focusing on private sector investment and capital market development.

During the meeting, the finance minister highlighted the economic implications of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, noting that Pakistan is closely monitoring the situation and responding proactively.

Aurangzeb appreciated IFC’s continued support to Pakistan, particularly its role in mobilizing local currency financing, and emphasized the need to further strengthen engagement to boost private sector investment, enhance productivity, and generate employment opportunities.

He sought IFC’s support in developing Pakistan’s capital markets, drawing on successful international models, while also acknowledging the corporation’s contribution to trade finance, terming it critical in the current economic environment.

The finance minister underscored the importance of closer collaboration between IFC and the Prime Minister’s Task Force on Agriculture to drive growth and innovation in the sector.

He also welcomed IFC’s evolving capital mobilization strategy, particularly its shift from a traditional balance sheet approach to an originate-and-distribute model aimed at leveraging private capital at scale.

The meeting reaffirmed the strong partnership between Pakistan and the IFC, highlighting a shared commitment to promoting sustainable economic growth through enhanced private sector participation.