Aurangzeb calls for reform-driven approach aimed at restoring investor confidence

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has called for a fundamental shift from reactive policymaking to a forward-looking, reform-driven approach aimed at stabilizing Pakistan’s economy, restoring investor confidence and setting a sustainable course for growth.

Addressing the inaugural session of the 9th Edition of 'The Future Summit' in Karachi, he outlined the government’s commitment to structural reforms, fiscal discipline, and strategic partnerships to redefine the country’s economic direction.

The Finance Minister reiterated that macroeconomic stability has been achieved and externally validated, with major rating agencies upgrading Pakistan’s outlook and the IMF’s second review under the ongoing program concluded successfully.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing an enabling ecosystem in priority sectors such as minerals and mining, IT, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and the blue economy.

Discussing technological advancement and the knowledge-based economy, the Minister welcomed Google’s decision to open an office in Pakistan and to make the country a regional technical and export hub.

He emphasized the need to equip youth with digital and technical skills to help them capture higher-value opportunities in coding, blockchain, and AI-driven sectors.

He also shared updates on the right-sizing of federal ministries and departments, closure of loss-making entities like Utility Stores Corporation and PASCO, and the transition to a defined-contribution pension scheme for new government entrants.