ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with the heads of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to economic reforms, fiscal stabilization, and climate-resilient recovery.
Sharif thanked IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva for the Fund’s continued support under various facilities, including the $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement and the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF).
“The impact of the recent floods on Pakistan’s economy must be factored into the IMF’s review,” Sharif emphasized.
Georgieva praised Pakistan’s progress on economic reforms and reiterated the IMF’s support for the country’s macroeconomic stability. She expressed sympathy for flood-affected communities and underlined the need for comprehensive damage assessments to shape recovery priorities.
Sharif-Gates meet
Separately, the PM met with Bill Gates, chair of the Gates Foundation, on the sidelines and expressed appreciation for the foundation’s generous donation to Pakistan's recent floods in 2025.
Prime Minister Sharif expressed appreciation for the foundation’s generous donation to Pakistan, as well as for the donation made following the 2022 floods.
In addition, the premier appreciated the support extended by the Gates Foundation to Pakistan for its polio eradication efforts, as well as improvements in immunization and nutrition, and financial inclusion in the country, according to a statement issued by the prime minister's office.
According to the statement, the premier emphasized that polio eradication remained a top priority, and partnership with the Gates Foundation would remain vital to achieving this objective.
"The prime minister and [Bill] Gates reaffirmed their shared commitment to continue working together to advance cooperation in sectors of health, nutrition, digital transformation, and larger socio-economic development of the country," it added.
World Bank
Earlier, in talks with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, the prime minister discussed reforms in tax collection, energy sector restructuring, and climate action under the new Country Partnership Framework (CPF) 2026–2035, which includes a $40 billion financing commitment.
“President Banga appreciated the reform measures being undertaken by Pakistan and reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to Pakistan’s development agenda,” stated the PM’s Office.
Sharif commended the World Bank's rapid response to past crises, including the 2022 floods and the COVID-19 pandemic, and welcomed the Bank’s evolving role as a more agile development partner.
Since joining the World Bank in 1950, Pakistan has received over $48.3 billion in assistance, with the current portfolio consisting of 54 projects totaling $15.7 billion.
Strengthening bilateral ties
In a separate meeting, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met with Lithuania’s Acting Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys. Both sides agreed to enhance bilateral trade, investment, and cooperation in digital economy and education.
A key outcome of the meeting was the signing of the Convention on Avoidance of Double Taxation, described as a “significant milestone” to boost investor confidence and economic collaboration.
“We are committed to maintaining momentum in bilateral engagement and exploring new areas of mutual interest,” said Dar.
Kuwait and Pakistan
PM Sharif also met with Kuwait Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah to deepen cooperation in trade, agriculture, manpower, and health.
Sharif conveyed gratitude for Kuwait’s support during Pakistan’s 2022 floods and extended a formal invitation for the Crown Prince to visit Pakistan later this year.
Both leaders discussed key regional and international developments, with the crown prince commending Pakistan’s diplomatic role in raising awareness about the plight of the Palestinian people.
These engagements on the sidelines of UNGA reflect Pakistan’s strategic push to build resilient economic frameworks, secure long-term international financing, and strengthen bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
As Pakistan continues navigating the challenges of post-disaster recovery and structural economic reform, its outreach in New York underscores a growing emphasis on global collaboration for inclusive growth and stability.
