Aurangzeb, Deutsche Bank official discuss economic outlook

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, held a meeting with Jamal Al Kishi, Regional CEO, Middle East & Africa, Deutsche Bank, accompanied by Ali Haider Zaidi, Country Manager Pakistan, to discuss Pakistan’s economic outlook, investment opportunities and avenues for greater engagement by Deutsche Bank.

The Finance Minister briefed the participants on Pakistan’s recent economic progress and the Government’s efforts to institutionalize structural reforms and establish a sustainable, export-led growth trajectory. He highlighted improvements in the country’s fiscal position, external account, and overall macroeconomic stability, as well as positive validation from international rating agencies and partners.

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He noted that the improvement in Pakistan’s credit profile was an important milestone and that the Government remained focused on further strengthening the country’s standing in international markets.

Jamal Al Kishi congratulated the Finance Minister and his team on the progress achieved over the past two years, particularly in fiscal consolidation, balance of payments, exports and remittances. He appreciated the improvements and expressed confidence that these developments provided a strong foundation for more sustainable and well-grounded economic progress.

On external financing, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb outlined Pakistan’s medium-term strategy, including efforts to manage and diversify the composition of the country’s external debt and deepen engagement with international capital markets and financial institutions.

He highlighted the fiscal space created through ongoing reforms and stressed the importance of expanding access to diversified sources of external financing.

The Finance Minister highlighted opportunities to attract greater investment from international as well as regional, particularly Saudi-based companies, specifically in infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, utilities, mining and minerals, technology and blockchain, and other productive sectors.

He underscored the importance of strengthening private-sector participation and facilitating greater engagement by Saudi-based multinational companies interested in exploring opportunities in Pakistan.

Al Kishi reaffirmed Deutsche Bank’s long-term commitment to Pakistan and expressed interest in broadening the Bank’s product offering and coverage across corporate banking and investment banking. He noted the Bank’s interest in developing a broader appetite for Pakistani exposure and further strengthening its presence in the country.

He also highlighted opportunities to support greater engagement with the MENA region, particularly Saudi-based companies, and explore investment and financing opportunities across key sectors.

The Finance Minister welcomed Deutsche Bank’s continued engagement and appreciated its support for Pakistan. He emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration with international financial institutions and private-sector partners to mobilize investment, deepen financial markets, and support Pakistan’s long-term economic growth.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026