Aurangzeb holds key meetings in New York on digitalization, aviation

He stressed the development of digital public infrastructure and promotion of cashless payments. Aurangzeb also emphasized the need to help freelancers move towards higher-value skills. He said work was underway on legislation and oversight related to virtual assets in Pakistan.

The finance minister highlighted the practical use of virtual assets and the need to focus on low-cost remittances. He said the possible tokenization of public debt and real estate was also being considered. Aurangzeb also met US Export-Import Bank Chairman John Jovanovic, where discussions were held on financial support for the purchase of aircraft for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

The finance minister informed the US side about PIA’s interest in Boeing 787 Dreamliners and emphasized the need for a financing package for the purchase of Boeing aircraft and engines. The provision of spare parts for grounded Boeing 777 aircraft was also discussed.

The meeting also covered possible financing for PIA’s pre-delivery aircraft payments. Support from the United States for refinery upgrades in Pakistan and assistance from the US Export-Import Bank for the Reko Diq project were also discussed.

Aurangzeb said the Reko Diq project was important for Pakistan’s future exports, adding that the cost of delays in the project could not be ignored. The finance minister said efforts were continuing to mobilize international financial support for key sectors, with a focus on Pakistan’s digitalization and strengthening international economic cooperation.