KARACHI: International Monetary Fund (IMF) is ready to support Pakistan in a difficult economic situation, Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of IMF said on Sunday after meeting with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the IMF, met on Sunday with Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan in Dubai, in the context of the World Government Summit hosted by the United Arab Emirates.
Following the meeting, Ms. Lagarde made the following statement:
“I had a good and constructive meeting with Prime Minister Khan, during which we discussed recent economic developments and prospects for Pakistan in the context of ongoing discussions toward an IMF-supported program.
“I reiterated that the IMF stands ready to support Pakistan.
“I also highlighted that decisive policies and a strong package of economic reforms would enable Pakistan to restore the resilience of its economy and lay the foundations for stronger and more inclusive growth.
“As emphasized in the new government’s policy agenda, protecting the people with lower income and strengthening governance are key priorities to improve people’s living standards in a sustainable manner.”
Another statement issued by Islamabad stated:
Prime Minister Imran Khan appreciated IMF’s support to Pakistan and shared his vision for nation-building.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to undertaking structural & governance reforms and strengthening social protection in the country.
The IMF Managing Director acknowledged the steps taken so far by the Pakistan Government for stabilizing the economy.
She said the IMF will remain engaged in supporting Pakistan in sustaining its economic recovery.
The two sides agreed to work together on policy priorities and reforms aimed at reducing imbalances and laying the foundations of a job-creating growth path in Pakistan.
In this regard, deliberations between Pakistani authorities and IMF staff will continue to finalize an agreement on the contours of a program.
