In a significant development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on the sidelines of the World Government Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai. The meeting underscored Pakistan’s dedication to sustaining its reform momentum and achieving long-term economic stability.
During the discussions, Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the progress made under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which has been pivotal in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. He emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing structural reforms, particularly in critical areas such as tax reform, energy sector efficiency, and private sector development.
The Prime Minister assured the IMF chief of Pakistan’s resolve to maintain fiscal discipline, economic prudence, and sustainability as essential pillars for inclusive and sustained growth. He also expressed confidence in meeting the targets set by the IMF, with a review scheduled for March.
In response, Kristalina Georgieva commended Pakistan’s efforts in effectively implementing the IMF-supported program. She acknowledged the country’s improving economic performance, marked by rising growth and declining inflation. Georgieva also praised Prime Minister Sharif’s leadership and personal commitment to driving the reform agenda, which has been instrumental in achieving economic stability and progress.
The meeting highlighted the importance of sustained fiscal discipline, structural reforms, and good governance in ensuring long-term economic stability and growth. The IMF Managing Director reiterated the organization’s continued support for Pakistan’s reform agenda, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to achieve sustainable growth.
As Pakistan navigates its economic recovery, bolstered by a $7 billion facility from the IMF granted in September, the government’s comprehensive reform agenda remains crucial in driving the nation towards a path of long-term prosperity.
