Pakistan and Islamic Development Bank have reaffirmed their resolve for a strong, results-oriented partnership focused on transformational investments, effective implementation and measurable development outcomes.

The resolve was expressed during a meeting between Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema and Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank, Dr Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser, in Bangkok, Thailand today.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 2026 World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meetings, where both sides discussed accelerating development cooperation under Pakistan's Member Country Partnership Strategy 2026-2030.

During the meeting, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema congratulated Dr Al Jasser on his re-election for a second five-year term and reaffirmed Pakistan's confidence in his leadership.

Welcoming the MCPS, which envisages approximately 5.6 billion dollars in indicative IDB Group financing, the Minister emphasized the importance of translating the indicative financing envelope into a concrete pipeline of well-prepared projects, with clear timelines for financing approvals, disbursements and implementation.

The Minister appreciated Islamic Development Bank's 475 million dollars financing for the M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway and welcomed its continued support for Pakistan's polio eradication program, including the recent approval of 100 million dollars for Phase V.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the ML-1 Railway Upgradation Project for modernizing Pakistan's railway network, strengthening connectivity and enhancing economic competitiveness, he sought enhanced Islamic Development Bank's support for the project and urged close coordination with the Asian Development Bank and other co-financiers to advance project preparation and expedite implementation.

He also highlighted the mobilization of over 1 billion dollars in trade financing through ITFC during FY2025-26 and sought more competitive terms for future facilities, reflecting Pakistan's improving macroeconomic and credit profile.

Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank, Dr Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser commended the Government of Pakistan for its ambitious economic development vision and affirmed Islamic Development Bank Group's commitment to contribute to the attainment of Pakistan's development priorities.