Overview
- Aurangzeb says Pakistan will move from aid dependence to trade- and investment-led partnerships, prioritizing deeper ties with GCC countries.
- He notes the IMF Executive Board approved the second review of the Extended Fund Facility this week after its successful completion.
- Officials report stabilization gains: inflation has fallen from a 38% peak to single digits, primary surpluses have been recorded, the exchange rate is stable, the current account is within targets, and reserves cover roughly 2.5 months of imports.
- All three major global rating agencies upgraded Pakistan’s ratings and outlook this year, which the government presents as external validation of its reforms.
- The agenda includes broadening the tax base to lift the tax-to-GDP ratio toward 11%, advancing energy and state-owned enterprise reforms, courting GCC investment across priority sectors, and pursuing a GCC free trade agreement described as at an advanced stage.