Mazaj News (Web Desk) Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Tuesday said Pakistan, after receiving financial assistance from Saudi Arabia, is not planning to approach other friendly nations for further funding.
Addressing media in Islamabad, the finance minister stated that the government is now shifting its focus towards raising commercial financing to meet its economic requirements instead of relying on bilateral support.
He noted that Pakistan is “transitioning towards commercial borrowing rather than bilateral arrangements.”
His comments came after Saudi Arabia deposited $3 billion into the State Bank of Pakistan this month. The first installment of $2 billion was received on April 15, 2026, followed by an additional $1 billion on April 21 under the same $3 billion facility.
According to officials, this Saudi support has improved Pakistan’s external financial position, allowing the country to repay $3.45 billion placed by the United Arab Emirates in central bank deposits held as secure reserves.
On discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the finance minister expressed optimism that Pakistan would receive a $1.2 billion tranche next month. He also confirmed that preparations and consultations for the upcoming federal budget for the next fiscal year are in progress.
Aurangzeb further rejected reports of any immediate food security or fertiliser shortage in the country, even as regional tensions in the Middle East continue to impact energy-related infrastructure.
He added that remittance inflows have remained steady, including those from the UAE, despite ongoing geopolitical instability linked to the US-Israel conflict with Iran.