ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held telephonic conversation with Managing Director of International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva and discussed matters relating to IMF programme with Pakistan.

During talk, Prime Minister expressed hope that consensus between Pakistan and IMF on various points would lead to Fund’s decision to resume programme in couple of days.

In context of her recent meeting with Prime Minister in Paris, IMF Managing Director acknowledged efforts of Finance Minister and his team for completing programme. PM Shehbaz reiterated his resolve to meet targets of improving country’s economic situation with joints efforts. Kristalina Georgieva praised PM Shehbaz’s leadership role in his efforts with respect to IMF programme.  She said IMF wanted an improved economic situation of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, International Monetary Fund's Mission Chief to Pakistan Nathan Porter has said that discussions with Pakistani authorities are underway "With aim of quickly reaching an agreement on financial support from IMF". "Over past few days, Pakistani authorities have taken decisive measures to bring policies more in line with economic reform programme," he said in statement.

Measures include passage of budget by Parliament that broadens tax base while opening up space for higher social and development spending.

Published in The Daily National Courier, June, 28 2023

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