World Bank chief in Pakistan for talks on development, economic reforms

The president of the World Bank, Ajay Banga, has arrived in Pakistan for a visit aimed at strengthening a decade-long development partnership between the global lender and the government, officials said.

Banga is expected to stay in Pakistan through February 4 and meet senior government officials, including the prime minister, deputy prime minister, finance minister and other key economic policymakers, according to sources familiar with the visit.

The visit comes as the World Bank and Pakistan prepare to implement a 10-year Country Partnership Framework (CPF) designed to deliver an estimated $20 billion in development financing, officials said.

The framework, approved by the World Bank’s board in January, outlines priorities for inclusive and sustainable growth through 2035.

Under the plan, the World Bank aims to support strategic outcomes, including reduced child stunting, improved educational outcomes, increased resilience to climate-related disasters, sustainable and cleaner energy, expanded fiscal space, and stronger private-sector investment.

The framework places particular emphasis on human capital, economic resilience and reform measures to spur investment and create jobs.

Sources said Banga will be briefed on Pakistan’s economic reforms and the government’s development priorities and is expected to discuss cooperation on ongoing economic reforms, climate resilience and structural challenges.

Talks may also touch on regional issues, including water management and disputes with neighboring countries.

The 10-year partnership framework represents one of the largest long-term World Bank engagements with Pakistan. It aims to shift from short-term project funding to sustained, larger investments that align with Pakistan’s national transformation agenda.

Officials said the initial tranche of financing — totaling about $20 billion — will be provided through the World Bank’s concessional and development lending arms, with a portion potentially directed toward priority sectors such as education, health, clean energy and climate adaptation.

Government sources described Banga’s visit as a “historic moment” in bilateral cooperation, underscoring Islamabad’s efforts to boost investor confidence and accelerate economic growth.