Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has said Pakistan seeks to strengthen economic ties both with China and the United States.

In an Interview with Channel News Asia, he said Pakistan is shifting from aid to trade and investment, and strengthening global partnerships.

Muhammad Aurangzeb said CPEC Phase II focuses on monetizing existing infrastructure through Business-to-Business collaboration, Joint Ventures and export-oriented production.

He acknowledged the support of longstanding partners, particularly GCC Countries, through economic challenges. He said Pakistan is expanding engagement with GCC countries, Central Asian Republics and ASEAN to unlock regional trade opportunities.

Meanwhile, participating in the JP Morgan Investment Seminar on “Pakistan: The Road to Resilience in a Turbulent Global Economy Landscape” on the sidelines of the World Bank Group–IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand, the Finance Minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the IMF programme and continued structural reforms, alongside prudent monetary policy to contain inflation.

The Finance Minister highlighted Pakistan's progress in macroeconomic stabilization, fiscal consolidation, revenue mobilization and sustained primary surpluses.

Muhammad Aurangzeb outlined efforts to diversify international financing and replace costly borrowing without increasing the external debt stock.

The Finance Minister emphasized targeted support for vulnerable households, careful energy procurement and sustainable, export-led growth.