Pakistan’s Ahad Cheema to Lead World Bank & IMF Boards in 2027, First Pakistani Since 1953

Pakistan has reached a significant milestone in international economic diplomacy, as Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema has been announced as the incoming Chair of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for 2027. The announcement was made during the 2026 WBG-IMF Annual Meetings in Bangkok.

This development marks Pakistan’s first time assuming the chairmanship since 1953, creating an opportunity for the country to participate in high-level discussions on global development, economic cooperation, and international financial priorities.

In this role, Ahad Khan Cheema will help facilitate dialogue among member countries and provide procedural and diplomatic leadership during the 2027 term. The position does not grant additional authority over lending decisions or the programs of either institution.

The appointment represents an important moment for Pakistan’s participation in global financial governance and highlights its role in international economic cooperation and development finance.