Islamabad: Minister for Economic Affairs, Ahad Cheema, has expressed appreciation for the World Bank's ongoing support in complementing Pakistan's development agenda. He conveyed these sentiments during a meeting with the Managing Director for Operations at the World Bank, Ms. Anna Bjerde, in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussions between the Minister and Ms. Bjerde focused on enhancing the operational effectiveness of the current projects and identifying new areas for World Bank support under the new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for Pakistan. Cheema specifically commended the proactive role of the World Bank's country office, highlighting the leadership and facilitation provided by Najy Benhassine, the outgoing Country Director for Pakistan.

Ahad Cheema emphasized the significant economic progress achieved by Pakistan, attributing it to the government's steadfast commitment to economic reforms aimed at sustainable macroeconomic stability. Ms. Bjerde acknowledged Pakistan's successful engagement with the IMF and noted the encouraging signs of economic recovery. She also commended the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Minister Cheema in steering the CPF preparation with a focus on human capital development.

Both parties agreed on the necessity to develop an implementation framework swiftly to ensure effective execution of the Country Partnership Framework and to solidify a project pipeline for the upcoming two years. Ms. Bjerde assured that the World Bank remains committed to providing support and technical assistance in key areas across Pakistan.