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In a significant development, the federal government has constituted a high-level committee, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, to oversee and finalize appointments for the prestigious positions of Executive Directors (EDs) at the World Bank (WB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The newly formed committee has been tasked with selecting senior Grade-22 officers from among the most qualified candidates for these coveted international roles.
Vacancies Arise Amid High-Profile Exits
The key positions at the World Bank and ADB became vacant following the recent career shifts of two prominent officials:
- Touqeer Shah, former ED at the World Bank, resigned to join the federal cabinet as Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on PM Affairs.
- Noor Ahmed’s term as Pakistan’s Executive Director at the ADB has come to an end.
These vacancies have prompted an expedited selection process, given the importance and influence these roles carry in shaping Pakistan’s economic and development agenda on the global stage.
Leading Contenders for the Posts
Sources reveal that Secretary Finance Imdad Ullah Bosal and Secretary Economic Affairs Division (EAD) Dr. Kazim Niaz are among the top contenders under consideration for the appointments.
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However, the final decision will rest with the selection committee led by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, whose recommendations will be submitted to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for formal approval.
Why These Roles Matter
The roles of Executive Directors at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., and the ADB in Manila, are not only prestigious but strategically critical. EDs represent Pakistan’s interests, influence lending decisions, shape development programs, and negotiate funding terms for major national projects.
Key Benefits of the ED Positions:
- Monthly salaries exceeding $25,000
- Generous housing and travel allowances
- Diplomatic status and privileges
- International exposure and strategic influence
Given these incentives, the government traditionally reserves these posts for its most trusted, senior bureaucrats with a track record in economic governance and multilateral coordination.
Final Decision Expected Soon
The appointments are expected to be finalized in the coming days, following internal deliberations by the committee. A formal announcement is likely once the Prime Minister signs off on the nominations.
This move underscores the government’s push to strengthen Pakistan’s representation at global financial institutions, particularly at a time when multilateral support is key to the country’s fiscal and development stability.
