World Bank Group Delegation Begins Historic Visit to Pakistan to Discuss Economic Strategies and Future Collaborations

A high-level delegation of nine Executive Directors (EDs) from the World Bank Group (WBG) has arrived in Pakistan today (Monday), marking the first such visit in almost two decades. This group, representing 88 countries on the World Bank’s Board of Directors, will engage with senior Pakistani government officials to discuss strategies for economic growth, investment opportunities, and the successful implementation of the recently endorsed $40 billion Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for the upcoming decade.

The visit is set to enhance collaboration between Pakistan and the World Bank, with a particular focus on driving key infrastructure and economic projects. The delegation will meet with Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Planning Minister Sami Saeed, Power Minister Sardar Awais Leghari, and officials from the Economic Affairs Division (EAD). The discussions will concentrate on boosting economic resilience, fostering private sector development, and ensuring the successful execution of CPF-related projects.

Beyond Islamabad, the delegation will travel to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Punjab, also engaging with representatives from Balochistan. These provincial visits will provide valuable insights into local economic challenges and growth opportunities, aligning with the World Bank’s mission to promote inclusive and sustainable development across Pakistan. The delegation will also meet with business leaders, academics, and civil society representatives.

The World Bank Group, which includes five key financial institutions—the International Development Association (IDA), the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)—is crucial in shaping global economic policies and providing financial assistance to developing nations.

The recently approved CPF for Pakistan, covering 2024–2034, is attracting global attention as a model for future partnerships between the World Bank and other countries. The delegation will assess ongoing and upcoming initiatives to ensure their alignment with the broader objectives of economic stability, infrastructure enhancement, and poverty alleviation.

The delegation includes senior figures from Algeria, Nigeria, Switzerland, Australia, Spain, France, Eswatini, and the Central African Republic, alongside Pakistan’s own World Bank Executive Director, Tauqir Shah. They are accompanied by Mercy Tembon, WBG Company Secretary and Vice President.

This visit signals a renewed and deeper engagement between Pakistan and the World Bank, as Islamabad seeks increased financial and technical assistance to tackle economic challenges and advance development across the nation.