IMF Chief Praises Pakistan’s Reform Progress After Meeting with PM Shehbaz

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva commended Pakistan’s ongoing economic reform efforts during talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in New York. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Georgieva stated that Pakistan’s strong implementation of its reform programme has contributed to preserving economic stability, restoring confidence, and regaining market access. She shared her remarks on social media, emphasising that continued reforms would further economic growth and benefit citizens.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed appreciation for the IMF’s continued support and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the IMF-supported reform programme. He also acknowledged Georgieva's role in fostering a constructive relationship between Pakistan and the IMF.

According to Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan is advancing from macroeconomic stabilisation to economic recovery, even amid regional conflicts and global inflationary pressures. The prime minister pointed to improvements in fiscal discipline, enhanced external buffers, and increased investor confidence, mentioning initiatives such as the National Tariff Regime, domestic revenue mobilisation, and ongoing privatisation efforts.

Both parties reviewed Pakistan’s forthcoming IMF programme review and agreed on the importance of continuing cooperation to advance reforms, strengthen economic resilience, and promote sustainable growth. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Adviser on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and other senior officials.