PM Shehbaz Sharif held separate meetings with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and World Bank President Ajay Banga on Wednesday. The discussions took place during the 80th United Nations General Assembly session. Talks focused on Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and future cooperation with both institutions.
During the meeting with Georgieva, PM Shehbaz praised the IMF’s long-standing support for Pakistan. He highlighted programs including a $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement for FY2024, a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), and a $1.4 billion Resilience & Sustainability Facility (RSF).
Sharif emphasized that Pakistan’s economy is showing signs of stabilization due to structural reforms. He also stressed the impact of recent floods, urging the IMF to consider flood damage during the upcoming EFF review. An IMF team is scheduled to visit Pakistan on September 25, 2025, for the second semi-annual review, which could unlock a $1 billion tranche. Georgieva expressed sympathy for flood victims and underlined the need for a comprehensive damage assessment.
In his meeting with World Bank President Ajay Banga, PM Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s reform agenda. This includes energy sector reforms, privatization, resource mobilization, and climate change initiatives. He noted that these reforms are stabilizing the macroeconomy, restoring investor confidence, and promoting sustainable growth.
Banga praised Pakistan’s progress and reaffirmed the World Bank’s support through a $40 billion Country Partnership Framework (2026–2035). PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to effectively implementing the framework in collaboration with provincial governments. He stressed the importance of this partnership for long-term economic development.
The meetings reinforced Pakistan’s focus on economic stabilization, sustainable growth, and recovery from natural disasters. PM Shehbaz emphasized that continued international cooperation is key to achieving these goals.
In other related news also read PM Shehbaz Denounces Israeli Bombing in Doha
