ISLAMABAD, Oct 15 (APP): Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, on Thursday, met with Minister of Finance of the People’s Republic of China, Lan Fo’an, on the sidelines of the World Bank Group–IMF Annual Meetings 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.
According to press release issued by finance ministry here, the meeting focused on strengthening bilateral financial cooperation, expanding access to international capital markets, and advancing regional economic collaboration.
During the meeting, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted Pakistan’s progress towards macroeconomic stability and expressed appreciation for China’s longstanding support, particularly during challenging economic circumstances.
The Chinese Finance Minister welcomed Pakistan’s improving economic position and renewed access to global financial markets.
The two Ministers reviewed Pakistan’s successful inaugural Panda Bond issuance, including regulatory support, credit enhancement from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), a competitive 2.5% coupon, and strong investor demand.
Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb reiterated Pakistan’s intention to establish a sustained presence in the Chinese capital market as a repeat sovereign issuer. Discussions also covered Pakistan’s return to the Eurobond market after four years and plans for further Panda Bond issuances under the approved RMB 7.2 billion programme, with continued AIIB support.
Both Ministers discussed Pakistan’s chairmanship of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), including preparations for the forthcoming summit and the preceding SCO Finance Ministers’ Meeting in Islamabad. Lan Fo’an expressed his intention to attend the ministerial meeting in Islamabad.
The two sides also exchanged views on the proposed establishment of the SCO Development Bank as an important initiative for regional financial cooperation. The Chinese side sought Pakistan’s active participation in ongoing consultations and support for building consensus on the proposed institution. Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the establishment of the bank.
The meeting also covered bilateral infrastructure cooperation, with the Chinese Finance Minister referring to progress towards consensus on proposed changes to the route of a China–Pakistan highway project.
On digital transformation and skills development, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb briefed his Chinese counterpart on Pakistan’s engagement with Alibaba to advance digital transformation and artificial intelligence skills training.
He reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the cooperation framework and strengthening cooperation in these areas.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
