Islamabad: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has emphasized Pakistan’s strategic positioning for sustained private-sector-led growth, leveraging its demographic advantage alongside ongoing reforms across various sectors. In a discussion with a high-level delegation from Dialog, a global leadership platform, the Minister expressed optimism about the country’s economic trajectory.

According to Radio Pakistan, Minister Aurangzeb highlighted Pakistan’s macroeconomic consolidation over the past eighteen months, marking significant achievements such as recent upgrades by Fitch, S and P, and Moody’s affiliates. He noted the successful completion of the Second Review of Pakistan’s IMF Extended Fund Facility and the Climate Resilience Program as critical milestones. The Minister also discussed the improving geopolitical alignment and strengthened relationships with the United States, China, and Saudi Arabia, all of which are contributing to the nation’s economic stability.

The launch of CPEC Phase 2.0 was a focal point of the conversation, with Aurangzeb underscoring its emphasis on business-to-business investment, export-oriented industrial zones, and joint ventures. He elaborated on the nation’s progress in pension reforms, particularly the transition to contributory schemes for new entrants, and outlined upcoming measures to tackle long-term fiscal liabilities.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Aurangzeb emphasized a competitive tariff regime, sustainability in the power sector, and the crucial role of private-sector participation in driving economic growth.