During a meeting in Islamabad, ADB Central and West Asia Department Director General Leah Gutierrez and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema discussed aligning development financing with Pakistan’s economic priorities and improving project readiness for timely disbursements. The government confirmed its commitment to the ML-1 project, which aims to modernize the north–south rail corridor, enhance passenger and freight capacity, and boost trade and logistics efficiency. Officials also highlighted efforts to coordinate development resources with provincial authorities for maximum impact. ADB recognized Pakistan’s progress in fiscal consolidation and macroeconomic recovery and confirmed close collaboration on ML-1 implementation.
