ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $350 million loan agreement to advance women’s financial inclusion in the country.
The loan supports the “Women Inclusive Finance Sector Development Program (Subprogram-II).”
The agreement was finalized on Tuesday between the Government of Pakistan and ADB.
The State Bank of Pakistan also signed a related Project Agreement concerning the Financial Intermediary Loan (FIL).
Program Targets Women’s Economic Empowerment
The total loan package includes a $300 million policy-based loan and an additional $50 million under FIL.
This initiative aims to improve women’s access to formal financial services and boost their participation in entrepreneurship.
The program will also help develop gender-inclusive work environments within Pakistan’s financial institutions.
Subprogram-II builds upon the foundational reforms launched under Subprogram-I.
It targets policy improvements, regulatory updates, and broader outreach to underbanked women across the country.
Reforms to Expand Financial Access
The project focuses on breaking systemic barriers faced by women in the economy.
It emphasizes developing inclusive financial products and ensuring equal opportunities in banking structures.
Pakistan’s ongoing collaboration with ADB highlights its commitment to sustainable economic development through gender-responsive reforms.
