IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva met with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif during her recent visit to the United Arab Emirates and expressed confidence in the government’s program and decision-making regarding supportive measures. According to a statement issued on Wednesday, Georgieva wrote on a social media platform, “Pleasure to meet Prime Minister @CMShehbaz and his team.” She further stated, “I am encouraged by their strong commitment to reforms supported by Pakistan’s IMF cooperation and endorse their decision-making actions that will provide more opportunities for progress and increased employment for Pakistan’s young population.”
These statements come as the IMF team is in the country on a week-long visit to assess the country’s judicial and regulatory systems under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) of $7 billion, aimed at addressing governance and corruption risks. According to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, during a meeting with the IMF head at the World Government Summit 2025 in Dubai, both parties discussed the exchange of views on Pakistan’s ongoing IMF program and the government’s comprehensive reform agenda aimed at achieving macroeconomic stability. The discussions also focused on the implementation of structural reforms in Pakistan and maintaining fiscal discipline, which are vital for economic stability and promoting sustainable growth.
The Prime Minister highlighted the progress under the program, giving credit to the economic growth achieved through the Credit Bill and reiterated the government’s commitment to continue reforms, especially in tax reforms, energy sector efficiency, and private sector development. The IMF chief praised Pakistan’s efforts under the program facilitated by the IMF, stating, “Pakistan is on a path of progress and passing through the stages of economic recovery.”
During this visit, the Foreign Minister, along with Finance Minister Mohammad Orangzeb, attended a two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, where they were invited to participate in the World Government Summit by President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. At a conference organized by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, Minister Orangzeb highlighted the IMF head’s acknowledgment of the Prime Minister’s leadership and commitment to the reform program. He emphasized reforms related to taxes, energy, and public finances, crucial for government integrity and pension reforms.
