FM outlines economic direction at Citi Macro Forum

April 16, 2026 (MLN): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, addressed the Citi Macro Forum in Washington, D.C., on the sidelines of the World Bank–IMF Spring Meetings, where he briefed institutional investors on Pakistan's economic outlook and policy direction.

The Finance Minister used the high-profile gathering to reaffirm Pakistan's economic reform trajectory, highlighting key milestones including the IMF Staff-Level Agreement, the launch of the Global Medium-Term Note programme, and the upcoming inaugural Panda Bond issuance, while also outlining the government's response to the ongoing Middle East crisis, according to a press release issued.

Describing the Middle East crisis as one of the largest supply shocks in recent history, the Finance Minister walked participants through the government's three-stage response, covering first-order effects and ongoing coordination with the State Bank of Pakistan on second and third-order economic impacts.

He also expressed deep appreciation for the financial support extended by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Reflecting on lessons drawn from the current crisis, the Finance Minister stressed the importance of building strategic petroleum reserves and accelerating the shift towards renewable energy.

He also pointed to emerging opportunities, including a surge in transit volumes at Karachi Port and the potential for renewed momentum in positioning Gwadar as a strategic trade corridor.

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