19/04/2026
🇵🇰*Is Pakistan now part of the Middle East ?*
Not geographically but Yes only in an administrative sense by the World Bank
*What the World Bank Did ?*
From July 1 (FY2026), the World Bank moved Pakistan into a new regional group called MENAAP (Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan & Pakistan).
This means Pakistan is now grouped with countries like Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates for economic and policy purposes instead of South Asia.
*Why This Change Happened ?*
Economic similarities and financial structure
Strong ties with Gulf countries
Better management of loans and development programs
*This is about policy and economics, not geography !*
*Potential Implications :*
Closer economic coordination with Middle Eastern economies
More targeted financial programs and funding
No impact on borders, identity, or sovereignty
*Conclusion :* The World Bank did not change Pakistan’s location , It only changed its economic grouping ..!