Pakistan has intensified efforts to strengthen public debt management as a cornerstone of its broader economic reform agenda, focusing on transparency, institutional reforms, and parliamentary oversight. Effective management of public debt is seen as essential for maintaining macroeconomic stability, expanding fiscal space for development priorities, and supporting long-term sustainable growth.
The emphasis on debt governance was highlighted during a recent policy roundtable jointly organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Pakistan. The discussions brought together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders to explore mechanisms for embedding fiscal discipline and accountability within national economic planning.
Participants underlined that robust debt management frameworks are vital for enabling Pakistan to address its fiscal challenges effectively while creating room for key development initiatives. Among these priorities are climate adaptation projects, social protection programs, and other inclusive growth measures that rely on sustainable financing. Integrating fiscal governance with climate resilience emerged as a central theme, emphasizing the need to align public finance with environmental and socio-economic objectives.
H.E. Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, emphasized the importance of transparent debt reporting and parliamentary oversight in strengthening fiscal responsibility. He noted that improving governance mechanisms ensures that public resources are used efficiently and responsibly, fostering confidence among domestic and international stakeholders. The official reaffirmed the government’s commitment to embedding transparency and discipline across all economic policies and aligning them with long-term development goals.
Experts at the roundtable highlighted that parliamentary oversight plays a pivotal role in accountability, providing mechanisms for regular review and scrutiny of public debt decisions. By actively monitoring borrowing, debt servicing, and fiscal allocations, legislative bodies help ensure that public debt management is not only technically sound but also aligned with national priorities and development objectives.
The discussions also focused on the need for institutional reforms to modernize debt management systems, improve reporting standards, and adopt best practices in public finance management. These reforms are expected to enhance Pakistan’s capacity to respond to economic shocks, manage fiscal risks, and maintain a stable macroeconomic environment conducive to investment and growth.
Through these measures, Pakistan is signaling a commitment to strengthening governance frameworks, promoting transparency in economic policymaking, and fostering a sustainable, inclusive approach to development. By combining fiscal discipline with strategic oversight, the country aims to secure financial stability while addressing pressing social and environmental challenges, positioning itself on a path toward long-term prosperity.
The roundtable’s outcomes underscore Pakistan’s dedication to integrating fiscal responsibility with sustainable development goals, ensuring that public debt management becomes a tool for promoting inclusive economic progress and national resilience.
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