LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took to twitter to express his opinion on economic understanding of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan. PM Shehbaz bashed Imran for his limited understanding of economy and accused him of conveniently forgetting his own role in exacerbating economic challenges.

Looks like Imran Niazi's understanding of the economy and the broader environment in which it operates is quite limited. He also conveniently forgets his own role in deepening economic challenges. From scrapping the IMF deal, he has always wished Pakistan to default. This is in…

— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 29, 2023

Tweets read, “Looks like Imran Niazi’s understanding of economy and broader environment in which it operates is quite limited. He also conveniently forgets his own role in deepening economic challenges. From scrapping IMF deal, he has always wished Pakistan to default.”

With complete disregard for the rule of law, this fascist govt - far worse than General Musharraf's martial law, has a one point agenda which is to crush PTI.

Meanwhile, Pak economy is going into a free fall. Dollar is at Rs. 315 in the open market, while for non CNIC holders…

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) May 29, 2023

PM Shehbaz added, “This is in addition to adverse impact his politics of non-stop agitation, long marches and dharna has had on economy in terms of causing political instability. Even Pakistani investors would shy away from investing their capital in such an unstable environment deliberately created by Imran Niazi.” Citing recent events of May 9, he highlighted economic repercussions, stating, “Terrible events of May 9 alone have cost economy billions of rupees and are an irrefutable endorsement of his nefarious designs. This is not to mention plethora of corruption cases he is involved in.” However, PM Shehbaz acknowledged that Pakistan does face economic challenges but asserted that doomsday scenario is now in past. He mentioned sincere efforts being made to address challenges through economic belt-tightening and timely policy interventions. “We are working with friends and partners to bridge financing gaps where needed. Real challenge for us is to reduce our dependence on imports and bring down inflation, which is possible when we make exports, investment and productivity engine of economy.  Government is making efforts to reduce country's dependence on imports by increasing exports, investment and productivity, he added.

Exchange between former and incumbent prime ministers comes as $ 350 billion economy undergoes one of its worst financial crises.

Government has been in talks with IMF for months for release of desperately needed economic bailout, without which Pakistan risks default. However, stalled loan programme is yet to be revived.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 30 2023

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