Aurangzeb seeks US financing for PIA

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met US Export-Import Bank Chair John Jovanovich during his New York visit for the 81st UN General Assembly session, according to The Express Tribune. The talks centred on funding for aircraft purchases by Pakistan International Airlines, refinery upgrades and the Reko Diq copper and gold project. Aurangzeb presented PIA's interest in Boeing 787 Dreamliners and requested backing for a package covering aircraft and engines.

He also pressed for spare parts so that grounded Boeing 777 jets could return to service. Both sides agreed to keep working on a wider cooperation framework while giving priority to specific deals, such as possible financing for aircraft pre-delivery payments. Refinery modernisation was flagged as another area where Exim Bank support could be considered.

On Reko Diq, the minister stressed its significance for future exports and the expense caused by delays, and he welcomed the bank's ongoing commitment. Separately, at a Digital Cooperation Organisation ministerial dialogue, he framed digital transformation as a central element in the shift from a stabilisation phase toward durable expansion. He also noted the need for upskilling alongside connectivity and outlined licensing and oversight of virtual assets.