ISLAMABAD: State Minister for Finance and Revenue Aisha Ghaus Pasha slammed International Monetary Fund (IMF) for “Intervening” in Pakistan’s internal matters.

“Pakistan’s conduct is in line with law,” State Minister said, terming IMF Mission Chief for Pakistan Nathan Porter’s statement regarding political situation in Pakistan “Extraordinary”.

While IMF does not comment on domestic politics, Porter had said that Fund hopes “Peaceful way forward is found in line with Constitution and rule of law.”

Hoping that both sides will reach staff-level agreement before announcement of expected to be unveiled on June 9 for fiscal year 2023-24, State Minister said that delay is neither good for Pakistan nor Fund.

Dr Pasha confirmed reports that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif contacted IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva adding that premier assured fund’s Chief that Pakistan will meet all its obligations.

PM Shehbaz according to sources requested her to intervene in order to complete pending ninth review which would unlock $ 1.1 billion in financing for cash-strapped nation.

In response to a question regarding Pakistan’s plan of action in case it fails to convince fund before expiry of programme June 30 she said, “Ministry of Finance is not sitting with its eyes closed, there is always Plan B but our priority is to revive IMF programme.” Commenting on upcoming budget, she assured masses that finance bill will aim at providing relief to people as this will be an “Election year budget”.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 01 2023

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