The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has disbursed the first tranche of $1 billion to Pakistan as part of its $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) bailout package, signaling the start of a crucial financial support program for the country.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed optimism regarding Pakistan’s economic trajectory, stating that growth is improving while inflation is on the decline. “We have completed our review, and the economy is moving in the right direction,” Georgieva said, crediting recent reforms for stabilizing the country’s economy.
In discussions with Pakistani journalists, Georgieva praised Pakistan’s efforts to balance fiscal policy by taxing the wealthy and providing support to the poor. She highlighted this approach as a critical step toward sustainable development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also welcomed the IMF’s support, noting that Pakistan’s economic reforms are progressing rapidly. He emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum to achieve the country’s stability and growth targets. The IMF agreement was reached after extensive negotiations, including staff-level discussions in July and meetings of the executive board through August
and September.