Pakistan will chair the Boards of Governors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) in 2027, returning to the position after 74 years.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema has been named the incoming chairman of both institutions’ Boards of Governors.
The announcement was made during the 2026 IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand.
According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Pakistan last held the position in 1953.
Ahad Cheema meets world bank officials
Ahad Cheema received a briefing from the World Bank Group’s Corporate Secretariat.
Officials explained the responsibilities of the chairmanship and discussed preparations for Pakistan’s upcoming term.
Cheema also met Aradhana Kumar-Capoor, the World Bank Group’s vice president and corporate secretary.
The minister also held talks with Carlos Carvallo Spalding, governor of Paraguay’s central bank and outgoing chairman of the Boards of Governors.
Cheema congratulated him on completing his term and praised his leadership.
Both officials discussed the responsibilities of the position and important priorities for the coming year.
Pakistan pledges support for developing countries
Cheema said Pakistan would work to strengthen the voice of developing countries in global financial discussions, during the meetings.
He stressed the need for reliable development funding and better cooperation between international financial institutions.
The minister also highlighted the importance of attracting private investment to support long-term economic growth.
He said Pakistan would work closely with the IMF, World Bank and other member countries.
Cheema also met World Bank Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde.
They discussed progress on Pakistan’s Country Partnership Framework for 2026–2035.
Cheema said the government was committed to turning the framework’s goals into practical development results.