ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s economic and climate reform agenda during a guest lecture delivered by Mahir Binici, IMF Resident Representative, at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI).
Binici said that economic growth across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, as well as Pakistan, is expected to strengthen in 2025 and beyond. However, he cautioned that elevated trade tensions, geopolitical fragmentation, and weakening global cooperation are creating uncertainty for the global outlook.
He emphasised the need for prudent and forward-looking policies.
Speaking on Pakistan’s progress under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), Binici said performance has been strong so far. He noted the IMF Executive Board’s successful completion of the first review in May 2025 as a key milestone.
Early policy actions have helped stabilise macroeconomic indicators and restore investor confidence despite ongoing external challenges, he added.
Binici highlighted the need for structural reforms to ensure long-term sustainability, particularly in areas such as tax equity, the business environment, and private sector investment.
He also discussed Pakistan’s climate-related efforts under the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), which aims to support countries in addressing climate vulnerabilities and meeting international commitments. The RSF focuses on improving public investment planning, sustainable water resource use, disaster preparedness and financing, and transparency of climate-related data.
According to Binici, support through the RSF could enhance Pakistan’s climate resilience and attract green investment.
Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI, welcomed the IMF’s engagement and said multilateral dialogue plays a key role in Pakistan’s path toward sustainable development.
The session concluded with a discussion on fiscal and monetary policy, external buffers, and the role of global institutions in supporting inclusive growth.
