US envoy lauds Pakistan's economic progress in meeting with finance minister

Natalie Baker, Charge d’Affaires and acting US Ambassador to Pakistan, lauded Pakistan’s economic progress and government’s commitment to implement structural reforms.

Her statement comes as she met Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb in Islamabad on Friday, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance.

The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, including avenues for enhancing economic cooperation and increasing US investment in Pakistan’s priority sectors, it added.

During the discussion, the finance minister briefed Baker on the government’s macroeconomic reform agenda, in line with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision for structural reforms and export-led economic growth.

He highlighted key initiatives being undertaken to improve economic efficiency and ensure sustainable and inclusive growth, including privatisation, tax reforms, energy sector restructuring, and rightsising of the federal government.

She acknowledged the country’s resilience and the measures taken to strengthen the foundation for long-term economic stability.

She reiterated the US administration’s commitment to fostering a strong bilateral relationship with Pakistan, with a particular emphasis on deepening economic cooperation and expanding investment opportunities.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening economic ties and exploring new areas of collaboration to advance shared economic goals.