ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Muhammad Aurangzeb, met with United States Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan, Natalie Baker, on Thursday to discuss bilateral economic ties, trade, and investment.
The meeting, held at the Finance Division in Islamabad, covered the state of Pakistan-US relations, current economic developments, and ways to expand cooperation in key sectors, including energy, mining, technology, and logistics.
Baker highlighted a recent symposium held in Washington by the Pakistan Caucus in the US Congress, which brought together policymakers, diaspora representatives, and business leaders to explore areas of future cooperation. She described the overall direction of bilateral engagement as positive.
Aurangzeb briefed the US delegation on steps taken by the Pakistani government to address challenges in the energy sector, including procurement, pricing, and targeted subsidies for vulnerable groups such as small farmers and public transport users. He also pointed to the effects of rising global oil prices on Pakistan’s import costs, inflation, and broader economic stability.
The two sides discussed Pakistan’s ongoing engagement with international financial institutions, including progress under its current International Monetary Fund programme. Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline while noting the need for flexibility in light of global and regional developments.
Baker expressed US support for Pakistan’s economic reform agenda and interest in expanding investment across multiple sectors. Both sides discussed participation in upcoming forums, including the Select USA Investment Summit, and explored collaboration on infrastructure, digital connectivity, and regional trade.
The finance minister stressed Pakistan’s focus on structural reforms, export-led growth, and creating a more business-friendly environment to attract foreign direct investment.
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