Islamabad, November 4, 2026 — Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met a Mastercard delegation led by Mark Elliott, Division President for East Arabia, to discuss expanding digital financial services in Pakistan.
The meeting focused on payment infrastructure, financial inclusion, cross-border remittances and cybersecurity as the government pursues its cashless economy initiative.
Digital Payments and Financial Access
Aurangzeb highlighted the role of digital payment systems in improving access to financial services for agriculture, small and medium-sized enterprises and underserved communities.
He said expanding digital transactions could improve efficiency and transparency while supporting broader participation in the formal financial system.
The discussions also covered improving cross-border remittance services and expanding digital payment acceptance.
Cybersecurity and Cooperation
Aurangzeb emphasised that fraud prevention and cybersecurity must remain central to developing secure digital financial services.
Elliott reaffirmed Mastercard’s interest in supporting Pakistan’s digital transformation through its payment technology and international experience.
Both sides agreed to maintain engagement and explore opportunities for cooperation.
The Mastercard delegation included Arslan Khan, Country Manager for Pakistan and Afghanistan, and Jibran Jamshad, Director of Public Sector for Pakistan and Afghanistan.