Pakistan seeks US support for market access, investment and capital market financing

WASHINGTON, DC: Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb held separate meetings with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and representatives of the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), seeking stronger economic cooperation, greater investment and support for Pakistan's access to international capital markets.

During his meeting with Treasury Secretary Bessent, Aurangzeb outlined Pakistan's progress from macroeconomic stabilisation towards sustainable, export-led growth, while highlighting the impact of recent regional geopolitical developments on the country's economy.

The finance minister sought US support to improve Pakistan's access to international capital markets, strengthen foreign exchange reserves and enhance market access through improved sovereign credit ratings.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral economic cooperation, encouraging greater US investment and advancing strategic projects.

In a separate meeting with DFC representatives, Aurangzeb sought expedited support for private sector-led projects in the energy, information technology, infrastructure, minerals, food and agriculture sectors.

He said the DFC's focus on ports, telecommunications, information technology, energy, minerals, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and supply chain development closely aligned with Pakistan's development priorities.

The finance minister invited a DFC delegation to visit Pakistan to identify bankable projects and work with local stakeholders to develop viable business plans.

The discussions also covered the possibility of establishing a DFC presence in Pakistan and engagement with future US congressional delegations.