TRADE & ECONOMY

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the World Bank’s ambitious 10-year $40 billion Country Partnership Framework (CPF), calling it a crucial step toward Pakistan’s economic and infrastructural development.
The announcement came after a meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and International Finance Corporation (IFC) Managing Director Mukhtar Diop in Islamabad, where they discussed the IFC’s ongoing and potential initiatives in the country.
Focus on Key Sectors
During the meeting, the Prime Minister appreciated the IFC’s active support in critical sectors such as:
- Infrastructure Development 🏗️
- Information Technology (IT) 💻
- Agriculture 🌾
- Healthcare 🏥
PM Shehbaz highlighted the importance of these sectors in driving sustainable economic growth and improving public services across Pakistan.
“This partnership will accelerate our efforts to modernize Pakistan’s infrastructure, enhance agricultural productivity, and strengthen our healthcare systems,” he said.
Digital Transformation of FBR
The Prime Minister also emphasized the government’s commitment to digitalizing the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to streamline tax collection and combat financial irregularities.
“The ongoing efforts for FBR’s digitalization will receive further momentum with international support,” PM Shehbaz stated.
IFC Acknowledges Pakistan’s Reforms
Later, Mukhtar Diop met with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and lauded Pakistan’s recent economic reforms, particularly those aimed at improving the business environment.
“The private sector has expressed confidence in the government’s policies, and we see Pakistan as a promising destination for foreign investment,” said Diop.
The $40 Billion Framework
The World Bank’s CPF is designed to span the next decade, focusing on structural reforms, climate resilience, and inclusive growth. It aims to support Pakistan’s Vision 2035 by:
- Enhancing climate-smart agriculture 🌱
- Promoting renewable energy sources ⚡
- Improving access to quality healthcare 🩺
- Expanding digital infrastructure 📡
Economic Outlook
Pakistan has been working to stabilize its economy through structural reforms and increased foreign investments. The IMF recently noted the positive impact of these measures, and the World Bank’s long-term commitment reflects growing confidence in the country’s economic direction.