Pakistan and the World Bank (WB) have agreed to swiftly develop an implementation framework to ensure effective rollout of the new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) and to solidify a pipeline of development projects over the next two years.
During a meeting between Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema and Anna Bjerde, World Bank’s Managing Director for Operations (MDO), both sides emphasized the need to enhance operational effectiveness of the existing portfolio and align new support areas with the priorities outlined in the CPF.
Senior representatives from both the Government of Pakistan and the World Bank participated in the strategic dialogue.
Strong Economic Reforms Driving Results
Minister Ahad Cheema underscored Pakistan’s “remarkable economic turnaround” in recent months, attributing it to comprehensive reforms aimed at achieving sustainable macroeconomic stability. He highlighted:
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Positive performance under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) with the IMF
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Improved credit rating from Fitch
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The government’s unwavering commitment to fiscal discipline and reform
He also appreciated the continuous support and facilitation by the World Bank’s country office, especially acknowledging Najy Benhassine, the outgoing Country Director for Pakistan.
CPF a Model for Other Countries
MDO Anna Bjerde lauded Pakistan’s efforts to engage productively with the IMF and noted encouraging signs of economic recovery. She commended Pakistan’s leadership for steering the preparation of the CPF with a primary focus on human capital development.
Bjerde called the new CPF a “pioneering framework” that could serve as a model for other World Bank member countries.
Key Focus Areas: Energy & Social Protection
Minister Cheema urged the WB to prioritize:
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Social protection graduation programs for provincial governments
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Innovative energy solutions to reduce generation costs and enhance affordability
Bjerde assured full WB support and technical assistance in these key areas.
Enabling Private Sector Growth
Both sides agreed that the ongoing WB portfolio should strengthen the foundations for private sector engagement, enabling it to play a more significant role in Pakistan’s development journey.
A Results-Driven Partnership
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both the Government of Pakistan and the World Bank reaffirming their mutual commitment to a results-driven partnership focused on tangible improvements in the lives of Pakistani citizens.
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