Pakistan to chair IMF, World Bank boards of governors after 74 years

Pakistan has been designated to chair the Boards of Governors of both the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group in 2027, a first for the country since 1953, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs. This announcement was made during the 2026 WBG-IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok, where Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema was formally appointed as the incoming chair.

The event, attended by over 15,000 participants from 191 nations, included central bank governors, economic policymakers, and business leaders, discussing critical global economic issues. The Ministry hailed Pakistan's selection as a significant achievement, stating that the chairmanship would enhance the country's involvement in international economic and development discussions, as well as foster dialogue among member states.

Following the selection, Cheema received guidance from the World Bank Group on his responsibilities and met with other key officials to discuss institutional support and coordination for Pakistan's term. He emphasized Pakistan's dedication to amplifying the voices of developing countries, ensuring stable development financing, and promoting private investment for inclusive growth.

The Ministry also highlighted Pakistan's readiness to collaborate with the IMF, the World Bank Group, and member countries to bolster international financial and development systems.