Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday appreciated the World Bank’s firm support for Pakistan’s position on the Indus Waters Treaty. During a meeting in Islamabad with Ousmane Dione, World Bank Regional Vice President for MENAAP, the PM reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to international law and peaceful dialogue to resolve regional disputes.
The Prime Minister specifically thanked the World Bank for supporting Pakistan against India’s “unilateral and illegal” attempts to undermine the treaty. He also expressed gratitude to World Bank President Ajay Banga and former Country Director Najy Benhassine for advancing the new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz said the CPF aligns with Pakistan’s national development priorities, especially in areas like energy, human capital, climate resilience, and governance reforms. He also thanked the Bank for its timely assistance during the 2022 floods, which helped launch emergency relief and long-term recovery.
Ousmane Dione, in response, praised Pakistan’s progress toward economic stability and noted the government’s commitment to reform. He highlighted PM Shehbaz’s leadership as key to restoring investor confidence and promoting inclusive, sustainable growth.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, both sides agreed to deepen collaboration in critical sectors of the economy. The World Bank also reiterated its commitment to helping Pakistan achieve its long-term development goals and strengthen institutional reforms.