WASHINGTON, Thursday, April 16, 2026 (WNP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Muhammad Aurangzeb, addressed the Citi Macro Forum, where he outlined Pakistan’s economic strategy and engaged with leading institutional investors.

The minister confirmed that a Staff-Level Agreement had been reached with the International Monetary Fund for the third review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the second review under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). He said approval by the IMF Executive Board is expected in early May.

Describing the Middle East crisis as one of the most significant supply shocks in recent history, Aurangzeb detailed the government’s three-stage response, including measures to address immediate impacts and close coordination with the State Bank of Pakistan on managing secondary and tertiary effects.

He expressed appreciation for the financial support extended by the Saudi Arabia, acknowledging its continued role in supporting Pakistan’s economic stability.

The finance minister also announced the launch of Pakistan’s Global Medium-Term Note (GMTN) programme, stating that requests for proposals (RFPs) for lead managers are being issued across Eurobonds, Islamic Sukuk, and a first-ever dollar-settled, rupee-linked bond.

He further informed participants that Pakistan’s inaugural Panda Bond issuance is targeted for May, following the signing of counter-indemnity agreements with the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Highlighting lessons from the ongoing crisis, Aurangzeb stressed the need to build strategic petroleum reserves and accelerate the transition towards renewable energy.

He also pointed to emerging opportunities, including increased transit activity at Karachi Port and renewed potential for developing Gwadar Port as a key strategic trade corridor.