World Bank President to visit Islamabad in February; energy reforms, economic agenda on the table

The Pakistan government and the World Bank are finalising the agenda for World Bank President Ajay Banga’s upcoming five-day visit to Islamabad, scheduled for January 31 to February 4, 2026, Business Recorder reported. 

Banga, accompanied by his team, will meet with senior Pakistani officials to discuss a range of critical issues, including economic reforms, energy sector challenges, and fiscal sustainability.

A joint meeting will take place on February 2, 2026, with Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik, and Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue Rashid Mahmood Langrial. 

The Economic Affairs Division has instructed the Ministry of Energy, Finance, and FBR to prepare eight-minute presentations for the World Bank President, outlining key sectoral updates and reform initiatives.

The visit is set to provide an opportunity for in-depth discussions on Pakistan’s energy sector, including ongoing reforms aimed at improving efficiency and sustainability. The government’s ongoing partnership with the World Bank will also be a focal point of the talks.

This visit follows a series of preparatory meetings, including one held on Monday with a World Bank delegation led by Ousmane Dione, Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan Region, who met with Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari.