In a major step toward gender-inclusive economic development, the Government of Pakistan has signed a $350 million financing agreement with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the “Women Inclusive Finance Sector Development Program (Subprogram-II).”

The signing ceremony also included the State Bank of Pakistan, which entered a related Project Agreement for a Financial Intermediary Loan (FIL). The funding comprises a $300 million policy-based loan and a $50 million FIL, designed to broaden women’s access to financial services, promote entrepreneurship, and foster more inclusive workplaces in the financial sector.

This initiative builds on progress from Subprogram-I, aiming to enhance regulatory frameworks, increase financial inclusion, and strengthen women’s participation in the economy. The agreement reflects Pakistan’s growing commitment to inclusive growth and women’s empowerment.