Finance minister, British envoy discuss economic reforms, bilateral cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott to discuss bilateral economic cooperation, Pakistan’s reform agenda and regional economic developments, the finance ministry said on Monday.

During the meeting, Aurangzeb briefed the British envoy on the government’s efforts to maintain macroeconomic stability amid global economic uncertainty, regional geopolitical tensions and volatility in energy markets.

He said that the government was focused on managing external sector pressures while continuing structural reforms aimed at supporting long-term economic growth and resilience.

The finance minister highlighted what he described as improvements in key economic indicators, including stability in the external account, strong remittance inflows and growing investor confidence.

Aurangzeb also discussed measures aimed at broadening the tax base, improving revenue collection and increasing transparency through digitalisation and technology-driven reforms.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, policy continuity and public sector reforms, including efforts to improve institutional coordination and encourage private sector-led investment and growth.

The two sides also discussed regional and global developments and their economic and humanitarian implications, with both stressing the importance of international cooperation and dialogue to address emerging economic challenges and disruptions in global supply chains.

Jane Marriott reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for Pakistan’s economic reform programme and development priorities, according to the statement.

Climate resilience, population planning, social sector coordination and cooperation with international financial institutions also came under discussion.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing commitment to further strengthening Pakistan-United Kingdom relations and expanding cooperation in economic and development sectors.