The International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) portfolio in Pakistan has reached a significant milestone, surpassing $2.7 billion this year, as confirmed during a meeting on April 1, 2026, between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Simon Andrews, the newly appointed Divisional Director for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia. The meeting took place at the Finance Division in Islamabad.
Simon Andrews, accompanied by World Bank Country Director for Pakistan Bolormaa Amgaabazar and IFC Country Manager Naz Khan, emphasized the IFC’s growing involvement in Pakistan, particularly in investment, trade finance, and advisory support. The finance minister welcomed the expanded engagement, noting that increased senior-level presence has bolstered collaboration and improved delivery.
The delegation highlighted key initiatives, including risk-sharing and guarantee facilities to promote trade and small and medium enterprise financing. They also outlined plans for local currency financing to mitigate foreign exchange risks and announced upcoming projects such as a diversified payment rights facility and a green bond issuance with a local bank.
Discussions focused on enhancing private sector investment, especially in infrastructure and public-private partnerships. While progress was noted in urban water management projects, both parties recognized the need for a stronger pipeline of bankable projects to attract larger investments.
Minister Aurangzeb stressed the importance of a client-centric approach to financing solutions, particularly local currency lending, to support private sector growth. He highlighted the government’s efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability amid global uncertainties, including energy supply chain management and fiscal discipline.
The meeting also covered collaboration on job creation, entrepreneurship, and developing a venture capital ecosystem. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation, accelerating priority initiatives, and utilizing World Bank Group instruments to support Pakistan’s reform agenda and private sector development.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, April 2, 2026
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