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An International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation is expected to visit Pakistan later this month to conduct the third review of the country’s ongoing economic program, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed on Wednesday.
Briefing the Senate Standing Committee on Finance, the finance minister said the IMF team is likely to arrive by the end of February. He added that Pakistan has already shared its economic plan and framework with the lender, which does not indicate any external financing gap.
External Financing and UAE Talks
Aurangzeb informed the committee that talks with the United Arab Emirates are underway regarding the rollover of existing financial facilities, as the government continues to manage its external financing needs.
IMF Pressure Speculation Rejected
The finance minister dismissed speculation that recent fiscal measures were imposed under IMF pressure. He said Pakistan has adequate financial capacity and did not seek emergency international assistance even after the recent floods.
Focus on Tax Reforms and Stability
Reiterating the government’s economic priorities, Aurangzeb stressed that improving the tax-to-GDP ratio remains essential for long-term stability. He said the government is focused on maintaining macroeconomic stability while pushing ahead with structural reforms under the IMF program.
