World Bank VP concludes first visit to Pakistan, pledges deeper development support

The World Bank’s Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan region, Ousmane Dione, concluded a three-day visit to Pakistan on Wednesday, his first since the country was placed within the Bank’s newly expanded regional framework.

Dione met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other top officials to discuss Pakistan’s economic challenges, development priorities, and key structural reforms.

“This visit has provided me with invaluable insights into how the World Bank Group is partnering with the government to better serve the people of Pakistan,” said Dione.

“In my discussions with Pakistan’s leadership, we explored the country’s key development priorities, the implementation of the new Country Partnership Framework, and the ongoing reform agenda,” he added. “I am deeply impressed by the government’s commitment to advancing human development, fostering inclusive economic growth, and job creation.”

Dione, who previously worked in Pakistan over a decade ago, said it was a pleasure to return. “I look forward to deepening our collaboration in support of Pakistan’s development,” he stated.

The vice president met with several federal ministers, including Ahad Khan Cheema (Economic Affairs), Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari (Energy – Power Division), and Ahsan Iqbal (Planning, Development and Special Initiatives). Discussions focused on how the World Bank’s regional realignment could improve the speed and effectiveness of its support for Pakistan.

In Karachi, Dione met Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Provincial Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. They reviewed operations related to flood response, housing and reconstruction, and efforts to address child stunting in the province.

Dione reaffirmed the World Bank Group’s support for Pakistan in facing major challenges. “We stand committed to help Pakistan address important challenges, including child stunting, learning poverty, access to cleaner energy, climate resilience, and air pollution,” he said.

He was accompanied by Bolormaa Amgaabazar, the World Bank’s new Country Director for Pakistan, Zeeshan Ahmed Sheikh, Country Manager for the International Finance Corporation, Fadia Saadah, Regional Practice Director for Human Development, and Almud Weitz, Regional Practice Director for Infrastructure.