Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb meets Mastercard delegation to explore cooperation in financial inclusion, cross-border remittances and cybersecurity.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Mastercard have discussed expanding cooperation in digital payments, financial inclusion and cybersecurity as the government accelerates efforts to promote a cashless economy.

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb held a meeting with a Mastercard delegation led by Mark Elliott, Division President, East Arabia, on Wednesday, according to a Finance Ministry press release.

The finance minister appreciated Mastercard’s longstanding engagement with Pakistan’s financial sector and its continued interest in supporting the country’s digital transformation.

Aurangzeb highlighted the government’s commitment to expanding digital payments, improving access to financial services and enhancing transparency and efficiency across the economy.

He emphasised the importance of the Prime Minister’s cashless economy initiative, particularly in supporting agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and underserved segments of society.

The meeting also explored opportunities to improve cross-border remittances, strengthen digital payment infrastructure and expand the acceptance of electronic payments.

The finance minister stressed that cybersecurity and fraud prevention must remain central to building a secure and resilient digital financial ecosystem.

Mark Elliott reaffirmed Mastercard’s long-term commitment to Pakistan and expressed the company’s interest in using its global expertise and technological capabilities to support the country’s digital transformation.

He also highlighted potential collaboration in digital payment acceptance, financial inclusion, remittances and cybersecurity.

Aurangzeb welcomed Mastercard’s continued engagement and investment in Pakistan, reiterating the government’s commitment to encouraging innovation and strengthening public-private partnerships.

Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement and explore practical opportunities to support Pakistan’s digital economy.

The Mastercard delegation also included Arslan Khan, Country Manager for Pakistan and Afghanistan, and Jibran Jamshad, Director Public Sector for Pakistan and Afghanistan.