ISLAMABAD: Najy Benhassine, Country Director of the World Bank Group made a courtesy call on the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Shaukat Tarin, at the Finance Division on Friday. While extending a warm welcome, the Finance Minister lauded the pivotal role being played by the World Bank in strengthening governance and service delivery through institutional reforms & human capital development in Pakistan over the years. He appreciated the swift and timely assistance extended by the World Bank Group for stimulating economic recovery during Covid-19 pandemic.

While speaking on the occasion, the Finance Minister reiterated the firm resolve of the government in achieving macro-economic stability and sustained economic growth by following a consultative process. He apprised the Country Director that the first Economic Advisory Council (EAC) meeting had decided to work towards reinvigorating the productive sectors of the economy. The EAC will facilitate sound economic planning by chalking out short, medium and long term plans (with firm timelines) to set the course for an inclusive and sustained economic growth, he added.

The Country Director, WBG felicitated the Finance Minister on assuming his new responsibility and thanked the Government of Pakistan for continuous support and facilitation in completion of on-going projects and programs.

In his concluding remarks, the Finance Minister stated that the continued support of the World Bank, as a major development partner, was critical to attaining fiscal consolidation, improved service delivery and good governance in Pakistan.—PR

Copyright Business Recorder, 2021