Pakistan, UK Discuss Economic Reforms and Future Cooperation

ISLAMABAD: (Mudassar Iqbal) – British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott met Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday to discuss Pakistan’s economic reform programme, financial stability measures and opportunities to enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

According to the Ministry of Finance, the meeting included detailed discussions on Pakistan-UK economic relations, the federal budget for 2026-27 and government initiatives aimed at strengthening economic resilience and financial stability.

Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing structural reforms focused on achieving sustainable economic growth. He said expanding the tax base, improving transparency and increasing investor confidence remain key priorities.

The finance minister highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance Pakistan’s access to international capital markets through financial instruments including bonds, Sukuk and Panda bonds. He also shared updates on new initiatives such as the tokenisation of sovereign debt and reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

He said the government is introducing technology-driven measures in tax administration, including artificial intelligence-based systems, a faceless tax framework and risk-based assessment mechanisms to improve efficiency and reduce administrative challenges.

The discussions also covered reforms in the energy sector and progress on the privatisation of state-owned enterprises as part of Pakistan’s broader economic transformation strategy.

The Ministry of Finance stated that both sides agreed to further strengthen collaboration in trade, investment, financial markets and climate-related initiatives.

Jane Marriott welcomed Pakistan’s efforts toward economic stability and reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for the country’s ongoing reform process, according to the ministry.