Cheema assures World Bank of close coordination on $20bn Pakistan framework

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema told the World Bank that the federal government is working closely with all provincial governments to implement Pakistan’s 10-year Country Partnership Framework (CPF), which includes $20 billion for development projects and reform programmes, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

Cheema gave the assurance during a meeting with World Bank Country Director Bolormaa Amgaabazar, where the two sides reviewed key outcomes of the CPF for FY2026-FY2035. He said the federal government and all provinces were aligned on the framework and remained committed to delivering its intended results.

According to the statement, the discussion covered a range of priority areas under the framework. These included efforts to reduce child stunting through access to clean water, improved sanitation, better healthcare and proper nutrition.

Climate resilience also featured prominently in the meeting, with both sides discussing measures to reduce the impact of floods and other climate-related risks while safeguarding food and nutrition security within the water-agriculture nexus.

The transition to cleaner and more sustainable energy systems was identified as another major priority, alongside efforts to improve air quality. Cheema noted that these sectors fall within both federal and provincial domains, underscoring the need for coordination across different levels of government.

Private sector investment and reform agenda

The meeting also highlighted the importance of encouraging productive and inclusive private sector investment through the International Finance Corporation (IFC). According to the statement, both sides stressed that such investment could help raise exports, improve external balances and support stronger and more sustainable economic growth.

Cheema appreciated the World Bank Group’s continued support for Pakistan and reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining policy continuity and ensuring that reforms are implemented effectively.

Amgaabazar, for her part, reaffirmed the World Bank’s support for Pakistan’s long-term development objectives through continued engagement, strategic financing and technical expertise, the statement said.

She also expressed confidence that sustained efforts could help Pakistan secure stronger investment, higher productivity and more inclusive growth over time.

The official statement presented the meeting as part of ongoing engagement between Pakistan and the World Bank on the implementation of the CPF, which is intended to guide development and reform efforts over the next decade.