At WEF, Finance Minister Aurangzeb highlights Pakistan's economic reforms, investment drive 

Davos (Web Desk): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, engaged in a series of crucial discussions in Davos during the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Annual Meeting, focusing on advancing Pakistan’s economic reforms, fostering international partnerships, and promoting investment-led growth.

In a meeting with Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Finance Minister Aurangzeb reviewed Pakistan's ongoing economic reforms and explored avenues to strengthen the country’s longstanding collaboration with the Bank.

Kanda acknowledged that Pakistan is entering a pivotal phase of economic transformation, with reforms gaining momentum and increasing confidence in the market. He emphasized ADB’s expanding engagement in Pakistan and expressed optimism about the country’s economic direction.

The finance minister expressed gratitude for ADB's continued support, describing Pakistan’s relationship with the Bank as entering a more strategic and forward-looking phase.

He shared that the past year had marked a decisive shift toward macroeconomic stability and highlighted improvements across key indicators, including easing inflation, declining policy rates, strengthening foreign exchange reserves, and a notable improvement in investor sentiment.

Aurangzeb also briefed the ADB President on progress in structural reforms, with a particular focus on privatization and encouraging private sector participation.

He noted that recent initiatives had sparked strong market interest and set important benchmarks, with more projects underway across various sectors.

The minister underlined the importance of continued collaboration with development partners like ADB to support these reforms and unlock Pakistan’s growth potential.

The conversation also covered efforts to modernize the energy sector and promote sustainable, clean energy solutions. Aurangzeb emphasized ongoing reforms aimed at increasing efficiency, strengthening institutional frameworks, and supporting long-term economic sustainability.

Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination to identify practical solutions for inclusive and durable growth. The ADB President reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to Pakistan and stressed the importance of private sector involvement and timely delivery of development outcomes.

Earlier, Aurangzeb held talks with Hassan El Houry, Chairperson of Menzies Aviation, to explore opportunities for collaboration in Pakistan’s aviation sector.

The discussions focused on improving airport services, operational efficiency, and investment opportunities in line with the government’s reform and privatization agenda.

The minister briefed El Houry on progress with Pakistan International Airlines and plans to outsource operations at major airports, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, highlighting the positive investment climate in the country.

El Houry shared insights on Menzies Aviation’s global operations and expressed interest in expanding the company’s engagement in Pakistan, highlighting the strategic importance of Sialkot for aviation and logistics.

The two sides also discussed ways to enhance airport service quality and improve the passenger experience.

The meetings concluded positively, with both the finance minister and his counterparts reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation, strengthening partnerships, and promoting economic and investment initiatives that support Pakistan’s sustainable growth and development.