Pakistan is working with the Asian Development Bank to bring new projects in energy, transport, climate, and minerals. The plan includes rail upgrades, copper mine financing, green bonds, and reforms that aim to strengthen growth and build long-term stability.
Finance Minister Priorities
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb shared Pakistan’s goals in energy transition, climate resilience, infrastructure, transport, human capital, and resource mobilisation. He also welcomed ADB’s support in green bonds, Panda Bonds, blended finance, and debt for-nature swaps.
Commitment to Economic Reforms
The minister assured ADB of reforms in taxation, tariff rationalisation, SOE restructuring, and regulatory modernisation. He praised ADB for backing women’s inclusion, clean energy, and disaster risk financing.
Prime Minister Calls ADB
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said ADB’s role in railways, public transport, and mineral development could prove revolutionary for Pakistan’s economy. He called the bank a trusted partner in Pakistan’s journey of development and prosperity.
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Major Financing Plans for Pakistan
- $2 billion upgrade of Karachi–Rohri railway line to improve transport of copper ore from Reko Diq mine.
- $410 million package for Reko Diq copper mine, one of the world’s largest untapped reserves.
ADB President Praises Reforms
ADB President Masato Kanda praised Pakistan’s economic stabilisation, structural reforms, and market diversification. He assured support in climate change adaptation, infrastructure development, and social protection.
Country Partnership Strategy (2026-2035)
Both sides agreed to draft a new 10-year strategy, similar to Pakistan’s $20 billion partnership with the World Bank. This will focus on long-term financing, institutional reforms, and innovative instruments.
Future Outlook with Asian Development Bank
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said cooperation in rail, transport, and minerals would be highly beneficial, while Minister Aurangzeb stressed that the Asian Development Bank’s financing tools would help Pakistan access global capital and strengthen economic resilience. He added that the Asian Development Bank has always been a reliable partner in supporting reforms and growth.
The minister noted that the Asian Development Bank is also guiding Pakistan in innovative financing options, such as green bonds and blended finance. According to officials, the government believes the Asian Development Bank’s support in large infrastructure and energy transition projects can create jobs, attract investment, and secure long-term stability for the economy.
