BANGKOK: Pakistan will take over the chairmanship of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group (WBG) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2027, returning to the position for the first time since 1953, the Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on Friday.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Pakistan’s governor to the World Bank Group, Ahad Khan Cheema, has been named the incoming chair of both institutions’ Boards of Governors for 2027. The announcement was made during the plenary session of the 2026 WBG–IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok.
The appointment marks an important development in Pakistan’s engagement with international financial institutions, offering the country an opportunity to contribute to global economic policy discussions and development priorities.
Following the announcement, Cheema received a briefing from the World Bank Group’s Corporate Secretariat regarding the responsibilities of the position. He also met WBG Vice President and Corporate Secretary Aradhana Kumar-Capoor to discuss administrative support and coordination for Pakistan’s upcoming tenure.
Cheema subsequently held talks with Carlos Carvallo Spalding, governor of Paraguay’s central bank and the outgoing chair, congratulating him on completing his term and acknowledging his leadership. The two discussed the role’s responsibilities and priorities for the coming year.
During the meetings, Cheema reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to amplifying developing countries’ voices, ensuring predictable development financing, strengthening coordination among multilateral institutions and attracting private investment to promote sustainable and inclusive growth.
He also pledged cooperation with the WBG, IMF and member countries to encourage dialogue and strengthen the international financial system.
Separately, Cheema met World Bank Managing Director of Operations Anna Bjerde to discuss implementing Pakistan’s Country Partnership Framework for 2026–2035. He reiterated the government’s determination to turn the framework’s goals into measurable development outcomes.
