The World Bank’s newly formulated Country Partnership Framework (CPF) for 2026–2035 took center stage during the first official visit to Pakistan by Mr. Ousmane Dione, the World Bank’s Regional Vice President for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MENAAP).
In a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema, the two sides discussed Pakistan’s development priorities and the strategic vision underpinning the CPF. The new framework, which includes a substantial commitment of $20 billion, is designed to support Pakistan’s long-term development objectives with a strong focus on climate resilience, human capital, institutional strengthening, clean energy, and inclusive economic growth.
Minister Cheema welcomed Mr. Dione and praised the World Bank’s recent administrative restructuring, which places Pakistan under the newly formed MENAAP region effective July 1, 2025. He noted that this alignment—already adopted by other global financial institutions such as the IMF and IFC—would enhance coordination and responsiveness between Pakistan and the Bank.
“The CPF is not just a funding tool, but a strategic roadmap that aligns with Pakistan’s national goals,” said Minister Cheema. He reaffirmed the Government of Pakistan’s commitment to work closely with the World Bank country team to ensure effective and results-oriented implementation of the framework.
Acknowledging the World Bank as Pakistan’s largest development partner, Minister Cheema expressed gratitude for its critical support during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the catastrophic 2022 floods. He noted that Pakistan is showing early signs of economic recovery, including a drop in inflation, rising foreign exchange reserves, and renewed investor confidence. – ER News Desk
