Pakistan, World Bank to deepen bilateral strategic cooperation

ISLAMABAD (APP) - Pakistan and the World Bank have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral strategic cooperation in diverse areas of mutual interest, especially under the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for 2026–2035, aimed at boosting growth, improving governance and addressing key financing gaps.

This was highlighted during a meeting between the Economic Affairs Minister, Ahad Khan Cheema, and World Bank Regional Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan (MENAAP), Ousmane Dione, who, along with his delegation, called on the Minister, said a press release issued here on Tuesday.

Discussions focused on the potential collaboration in energy, food security, agriculture, infrastructure development and transport, sectors that are central to Pakistan’s economic stability and reform agenda.

Cheema updated the visiting Vice President on the successful implementation of the wide-ranging economic reforms resulting in stable macroeconomic conditions, renewed confidence, and recovery in economic growth.

He reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan’s strong commitment to achieving transformative impacts of the CPF.

During the meeting, both sides agreed on the need to improve the effectiveness of the World Bank’s existing portfolio in Pakistan by promoting better coordination across sectors and strengthening monitoring mechanisms to deliver measurable results for ongoing projects.

Both sides also highlighted their longstanding relationship and agreed that the first year of the CPF would be critical in setting the tone for deeper engagement and more effective project delivery.

Dione appreciated Minister Cheema’s leadership in steering the CPF implementation process and assured the World Bank’s continued and enhanced support to complement the Government of Pakistan’s development agenda and reform programme aimed at stimulating sustainable economic growth.

He said that the upcoming visit of World Bank Group’s President, Mr Ajay Banga, would provide a great opportunity to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Pakistan and the WBG.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to continue engaging with each other for a results-oriented partnership that delivers meaningful socio-economic benefits for the people of Pakistan.