Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has rejected suggestions that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) dictates Islamabad’s policy decisions, asserting that the government acts solely in the national interest.
Speaking at a press conference in Washington, Aurangzeb said Pakistan’s economic stability is tied to national security, adding that unrest or border tensions directly impact the economy.
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He stressed the need to transform strategic partnerships with allies such as China, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S. into economic and trade opportunities. “Pakistan doesn’t need aid anymore — it needs investment and industrial collaboration,” he said, outlining the government’s focus on fiscal discipline, tax reform, and investor confidence.
Aurangzeb credited IMF Executive Directors and friendly nations for helping Pakistan avert a deeper crisis, noting that their timely support eased financial pressure. He concluded that Pakistan’s economic agenda aims for self-reliance and sustainable growth, saying, “Every measure we take is grounded in our national interest — not IMF instructions.”