IMF chief praises Pakistan’s reform push, backs continuity of programme

DAVOS: Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva has said Pakistan has demonstrated commitment to implementing politically difficult economic reforms agreed under its IMF programme, pointing to early gains from improved budget discipline.

Georgieva said the government’s reform measures were translating into tangible fiscal outcomes, allowing resources to be redirected towards public welfare.

She said the IMF was encouraged by both the pace and intent of implementation and looked forward to continued engagement with Islamabad on the programme.

Referring to her interactions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Georgieva said meetings with Pakistan’s leadership focused on reviewing progress and identifying areas requiring further work.

She added that the government and cabinet had shown resolve in pursuing agreed reforms, despite domestic pressures, and reaffirmed the Fund’s confidence in Pakistan’s reform trajectory.