Pakistan explores new Sukuk and financing options

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Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb discusses debt management, economic stability and diversified funding opportunities with Ajman Bank during the World Bank-IMF meetings in Bangkok.

Pakistan has explored new financing opportunities and stronger financial cooperation with Ajman Bank as the government continues efforts to improve debt management, maintain economic stability and diversify funding sources.

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb met with an Ajman Bank delegation on the sidelines of the World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meetings 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting focused on Pakistan’s economic outlook, potential financing arrangements and opportunities to strengthen bilateral financial cooperation.

Pakistan Highlights Economic Improvements

During the discussion, Aurangzeb outlined improvements in Pakistan’s fiscal and external economic indicators, reaffirming the government’s commitment to macroeconomic stability and the implementation of structural reforms.

The finance minister emphasized the importance of maintaining economic discipline while exploring alternative financing instruments to meet the country’s funding requirements. Both sides discussed prospective Sukuk issuances and rupee-denominated instruments settled in US dollars as potential options for future transactions.

The discussions also covered the need to broaden Pakistan’s financing base and reduce dependence on costly borrowing arrangements.

Focus on Debt Management and Financing Costs

Aurangzeb stressed that Pakistan aims to replace expensive short-term debt with more sustainable financing options and extend repayment periods. The government also intends to avoid concentrating debt repayments within limited periods without increasing the country’s overall external debt.

These measures are intended to ease repayment pressures, improve debt management and support a more sustainable financing structure.

The minister welcomed Ajman Bank’s interest in expanding its engagement with Pakistan and appreciated the institution’s willingness to participate in future financing transactions. He also acknowledged the value of its expertise and advice in developing suitable funding arrangements.

Regional Developments and Economic Resilience

The meeting also addressed the economic consequences of regional conflicts, the resilience of Pakistan’s banking sector and the potential use of targeted fuel subsidies.

Both sides highlighted the importance of ensuring that any relief measures remain consistent with fiscal discipline and broader economic objectives.

Pakistan’s efforts to promote regional de-escalation were also discussed, alongside the availability of fertilizer supplies that have helped protect food security.

The engagement reflects Pakistan’s broader efforts to strengthen relationships with international financial institutions, diversify financing channels and manage debt obligations more effectively.

Further cooperation with Ajman Bank could provide opportunities to explore innovative funding instruments while supporting Pakistan’s wider economic reform and financial stability objectives.