Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with Jane Marriott, British High Commissioner to Pakistan, at the Finance Division on Wednesday. The discussions focused on regional developments, Pakistan’s macroeconomic outlook, progress on economic reforms, and opportunities to enhance bilateral economic cooperation.
The Finance Minister briefed the High Commissioner on the government’s proactive measures to address potential economic impacts arising from evolving regional conditions.
He said the Prime Minister has constituted a high-level committee comprising key federal ministries and the State Bank of Pakistan to monitor developments and conduct daily reviews of critical sectors, particularly energy supplies and global commodity markets.
According to the briefing, the committee is examining supply chains, price movements, and possible disruptions in petroleum products, crude oil, coal and gas, while also assessing broader implications for inflation, external accounts and financial stability.
Senator Aurangzeb said Pakistan currently maintains adequate reserves and supply arrangements. He added that the government is undertaking scenario planning and sensitivity analysis in case regional tensions persist. Energy conservation measures are also under review in coordination with provincial authorities to ensure prudent resource management and avoid market panic.
During the meeting, the Finance Minister provided an update on ongoing economic reforms and engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under the current programme. He reiterated the government’s commitment to meeting programme benchmarks and advancing structural reforms in tax policy, revenue mobilisation, governance and institutional transparency.
He highlighted efforts to broaden the tax base through data-driven enforcement and improved compliance while ensuring fairness across sectors.
The Minister noted that macroeconomic indicators are showing signs of stabilisation and recovery, with economic growth reaching 3.7 percent in the first quarter of the current fiscal year. Improvements in large-scale manufacturing and resilience in the agriculture sector were also discussed. He said the government is focused on transitioning from stabilisation to sustainable and inclusive growth while addressing unemployment and poverty.
Ms. Marriott appreciated the government’s reform commitments and reiterated the United Kingdom’s continued support for Pakistan’s efforts toward macroeconomic stability and long-term growth. She said the United Kingdom remains a strong partner in development cooperation, private sector engagement and technical assistance.
The two sides also discussed investor confidence, particularly in sectors such as mining and minerals development. They emphasized the importance of stability, good governance and sustainable resource management to attract international investment and promote inclusive economic growth.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan–UK economic cooperation and maintaining close coordination on economic and development priorities.
