Pakistan and the World Bank have reaffirmed their strong partnership through a new $40 billion Country Partnership Framework (CPF). This major ten-year development plan will guide cooperation between 2026 and 2035. The announcement followed high-level meetings in Washington, D.C., led by Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema.
Cheema met with top World Bank officials, including Anna Bjerde and Martin Raiser, during his official U.S. visit. He praised the World Bank’s ongoing support, especially during difficult times like COVID-19 and the 2022 floods. The CPF marks a deeper commitment to helping Pakistan grow economically and socially.
Cheema called the World Bank Pakistan’s largest development partner. He stressed that the new strategy will drive meaningful change across sectors. He also highlighted plans to finalize a strong implementation framework in close coordination with the Bank. This step aims to ensure results from every dollar invested.
The minister welcomed Pakistan’s shift into the World Bank’s MENA Region, calling it a chance for better knowledge sharing. In a separate meeting, he thanked Executive Director Abdelhak Bedjaoui for defending Pakistan’s economic interests. Cheema also suggested that Bank directors visit countries more often to understand real needs.
The discussions also reviewed recent project approvals, including $700 million for the Reko Diq mine and $400 million in risk financing. Cheema promised full government cooperation to deliver the CPF’s goals. He said Pakistan remains fully committed to working with the World Bank to achieve long-term development success.