Finance Minister Not Happy With Pakistan’s Population Growth

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb expressed satisfaction with the State Bank of Pakistan's record-high foreign exchange reserves, but declared rapid population growth a significant challenge for Pakistan. The minister made these remarks during a luncheon in Islamabad with a Dutch business delegation led by the Founders Carbon Network. The SBP Governor, Privatization Adviser, Commerce Secretary, and senior officials attended the event.

The finance minister highlighted Pakistan's improving macroeconomic outlook as an opportunity for economic stabilization, higher exports, and private-sector-led growth. He stressed the importance of maintaining foreign exchange reserves and strengthening the country's ability to withstand external shocks. The minister outlined the government's priorities, which include fiscal discipline, structural reforms, broader access to financing, digitalization, and shifting focus from aid dependence to trade and investment.

Population growth and climate change were identified as major long-term challenges for Pakistan, requiring coordinated reforms to support sustainable economic growth. The Dutch delegation discussed Pakistan's business environment and potential for stronger commercial ties.