US reaffirms support for Pakistan’s economic reform agenda

US Charge d’Affaires to Pakistan Natalie Baker on Thursday reaffirmed the country’s support for the Pakistan’s economic reform agenda, according to a statement issued by the finance ministry.

The development came as Baker met with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb at the Finance Division.

“Baker reaffirmed US support for Pakistan’s economic reform agenda and appreciated the government’s efforts to stabilise the economy under challenging circumstances,” the ministry said on the social media platform X.

She emphasised continued US interest in promoting investment in key sectors such as energy, mining, technology and logistics, it said.

Further, both sides held a “comprehensive exchange on Pakistan-US bilateral relations, ongoing economic developments, and avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, and energy”.

The ministry said that Baker highlighted a recent symposium held in Washington and hosted by the Pakistan Caucus that brought together policymakers, diaspora representatives, and business leaders to “review progress in bilateral ties and explore future opportunities”.

The US diplomat noted the “positive trajectory of engagement between the two countries”.

The finance minister apprised the top US diplomat of Pakistan’s “ongoing efforts to manage energy sector challenges, including procurement, pricing mechanisms, and targeted subsidies”.

He noted that while supply arrangements were being maintained, “the government was working on improving price transmission and ensuring that subsidies are better targeted towards vulnerable segments such as small farmers and public transport users, the ministry said.

“Discussions also touched upon developments in the energy sector and broader economic outlook, with emphasis on ensuring stability while protecting vulnerable segments of society,” it added.

Aurangzeb underscored the broader implications of rising global oil prices on the country’s “import bill, inflation outlook, and overall macroeconomic stability”.

Both sides discussed Pakistan’s ongoing engagement with international financial institutions and development partners, including efforts to maintain reform momentum under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, the ministry said.

“The finance minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to fiscal discipline while seeking flexibility in light of evolving global and regional challenges,” the ministry added.

Meanwhile, the potential for collaboration in infrastructure development, digital connectivity, and regional trade was also explored in the meeting.

The finance minister acknowledged the constructive role of US partners and emphasised the country’s openness to facilitating investment and improving the business environment.

He reiterated the government’s focus on structural reforms, export-led growth, and strengthening institutional frameworks, the ministry concluded.

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