Finance Minister Discusses Budget and Economic Reform with IMF

Islamabad: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held detailed discussions with an International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission on Pakistan’s budget planning, macroeconomic outlook, and ongoing economic reforms, according to Beyond Time News.

Focus on economic stability and budget planning

The meeting was led by IMF Mission Chief Iva Petrova and centered on Pakistan’s efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability. Both sides also reviewed preparations for the upcoming federal budget.

Officials discussed key priorities, including fiscal discipline, external stability, and long-term economic growth through structural reforms.

IMF acknowledges progress

The IMF mission appreciated Pakistan’s progress in maintaining stability despite global and regional economic challenges. It praised the government’s commitment to policy reforms and prudent financial management.

The mission also emphasized the importance of continuing reform efforts and maintaining fiscal discipline to support sustainable and inclusive growth.

Pakistan highlights export and remittance growth

Finance Minister Aurangzeb briefed the IMF team on recent improvements in Pakistan’s external sector. He pointed to positive trends in remittances and export performance, showing gradual economic recovery.

He noted that exports had improved on both monthly and yearly comparisons, reflecting stronger economic fundamentals.

Read more:IMF Acknowledges Pakistan’s Economic Stability and Reform

Government’s reform agenda

The minister said Pakistan remains focused on reducing reliance on short-term measures and addressing long-standing structural issues. He stressed the need for export-led growth, productivity improvements, and deregulation.

Aurangzeb added that the government’s reform strategy is based on expert consultation and aims to break recurring economic cycles that have slowed long-term development.

Continued IMF engagement

Both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining momentum in economic reforms and strengthening cooperation ahead of the next budget cycle.

The IMF mission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Pakistan’s reform programme and long-term economic resilience through continued engagement.