PM commends ADB's role in Pakistan's economic development

ADB president expresses appreciation for Pakistan's ongoing reforms, reaffirms commitment to continued support

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday praised the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) longstanding partnership with Pakistan, highlighting the institution's crucial role in the country's development and prosperity.

In a meeting with ADB President Masato Kanda at the Prime Minister’s House, Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged ADB as a reliable partner in Pakistan’s journey towards economic growth.

He also welcomed the bank’s interest in partnering on several major projects that could drive the nation’s economic progress.

"ADB has always been a trusted partner for Pakistan, and its continued engagement is encouraging for the future of our country," said Sharif. "The upcoming collaborations with ADB in the fields of railways, public transport, and minerals are set to revolutionise our economy."

وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف سے ایشیائی ترقیاتی بینک کے صدر مساتو کانڈا (Masato Kanda) کی وفد کے ہمراہ ملاقات

"ہم نے اے ڈی بی کے وفد کو حکومت پاکستان کی جانب سے متعارف کرائی گئی اصلاحات سے آگاہ کیا جن میں ٹیکس محصولات میں اضافہ، توانائی کے شعبے کی اصلاحات، مالی استحکام کو بہتر… pic.twitter.com/5MNi0Azgfx

— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) August 27, 2025

During the discussion, the prime minister briefed Kanda and his delegation on the government’s recent reforms, including efforts to boost tax revenues, revamp the energy sector, improve fiscal stability, combat the effects of climate change, reduce untargeted subsidies, and expand social security.

The ADB president expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s ongoing reforms and reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting the country’s development.

"We recognise Pakistan’s significant progress and are committed to strengthening our cooperation in infrastructure development, climate change, and institutional reforms," Kanda said.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Ahmad Leghari, and Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi.