ADB pledges stronger support for Pakistan’s private-sector growth

Asian Development Bank (ADB) Vice President Yingming Yang met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on September 4, reaffirming support for Pakistan’s private-sector growth, economic resilience and reforms as the country seeks to strengthen investment and development.

What is ADB doing to support Pakistan?

The ADB is supporting Pakistan through financing, investment and development initiatives aimed at strengthening the private sector and economic resilience. Its engagement also covers structural reforms, infrastructure, project preparation and sectors including railways, agriculture and digital transformation under its 2026-30 country partnership strategy.

During his five-day visit, Yang met ADB Governor and Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. He reiterated the bank’s support for Pakistan’s development needs through innovative financing and targeted investments, while welcoming the country’s economic stabilisation and structural reforms.

What are Pakistan and ADB prioritising under the new strategy?

Talks with Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi focused on priorities under the new Country Partnership Strategy for 2026-30. These included upgrading the railway network, improving project readiness and preparation, and advancing investments to accelerate economic growth.

Yang also visited the newly upgraded National Power Control Center in Islamabad and delivered keynote speeches at high-level dialogues on taxation for fiscal sustainability, PPPs and private-sector development.

He also visited the site of the ADB’s new Islamabad office, where he planted a tree, and met development partners, business leaders and university faculty to discuss greater collaboration and coordination.

What did ADB discuss with Punjab officials?

In Lahore, Yang met Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the province’s senior minister and other officials to discuss development priorities in Pakistan’s most populous province.

The talks covered workforce development and future skills, digital transformation, agricultural modernization and critical infrastructure, reflecting the province’s focus on strengthening its development capacity and future economic growth.

How long has ADB supported Pakistan?

The ADB has supported Pakistan since the country became a founding member in 1966, committing 764 public-sector loans, grants and technical assistance worth $58.6 billion.

The bank currently has an active portfolio exceeding $10 billion in Pakistan, spanning about 50 operations.