ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva to discuss Pakistan’s ongoing IMF program and the economic stability achieved through the government’s reform initiatives.
Held on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai, the meeting emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to structural reforms and fiscal discipline, which have played a crucial role in stabilizing the economy and setting the stage for sustainable growth, according to a statement from the PM Office issued on Wednesday.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the progress made under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), crediting it with steering Pakistan’s economy towards long-term recovery and stability.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining the reform drive, particularly in vital areas such as tax policy, energy sector improvements, and private sector growth.
The prime minister assured the IMF chief of Pakistan’s dedication to economic responsibility, efficiency, and sustainability, recognizing these as fundamental to achieving inclusive and sustained growth.
Kristalina Georgieva praised Pakistan’s commitment to implementing IMF-backed reforms, noting the country’s economic improvements, including rising growth and decreasing inflation. She acknowledged Pakistan’s path to economic recovery and commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership in driving the reform agenda.
She reaffirmed the IMF’s support for Pakistan’s reform efforts, stressing the importance of continued fiscal discipline, structural improvements, and good governance for long-term economic stability and growth.
Following the meeting, Georgieva shared on her X timeline: “Wonderful to meet Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his team. I am encouraged by their strong commitment to Pakistan’s IMF-supported reforms and support their decisive actions to pave the way to higher growth and more jobs for Pakistan’s youthful population.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz also responded, stating that their discussion focused on Pakistan’s economic progress and ongoing reforms while reaffirming their mutual commitment to achieving sustainable growth and financial stability.
“We appreciate the IMF’s continued support as Pakistan transitions from macroeconomic stability to a path of sustained economic growth and prosperity,” he added.
