Pakistan is preparing to host an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation later this month as part of the third review of its ongoing economic program, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed on Wednesday. The visit is scheduled to take place by the end of February, with the IMF team expected to assess Pakistan’s submitted economic framework, which the government says shows no external financing gap. This development reflects Islamabad’s proactive approach to managing its macroeconomic policies while maintaining financial stability amid global uncertainties.
Addressing the Senate’s Standing Committee on Finance, Minister Aurangzeb emphasized that Pakistan’s economic plan has been fully shared with the IMF, underscoring the country’s readiness to undergo rigorous review and oversight. He highlighted that the current fiscal measures implemented by the government are part of a broader strategy to strengthen domestic economic fundamentals and are not a reaction to external pressure from the IMF. Even in the aftermath of recent floods, Aurangzeb noted, Pakistan has maintained sufficient financial capacity and has not sought emergency international assistance, signaling confidence in the country’s fiscal resilience.
In addition to the IMF engagement, the minister confirmed ongoing discussions with the United Arab Emirates regarding the rollover of existing financial facilities. This step is part of Islamabad’s wider strategy to ensure a stable external financing environment while simultaneously managing debt obligations and promoting investor confidence. By combining external support with internal fiscal discipline, the government aims to safeguard Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability while pursuing long-term growth.
Aurangzeb also stressed that enhancing the tax-to-GDP ratio remains a key priority for sustainable economic development. Improving domestic revenue collection is central to maintaining fiscal balance, funding critical development projects, and reducing reliance on external borrowing. The government continues to pursue structural reforms under the IMF program to streamline governance, strengthen financial management, and create a more transparent economic environment conducive to investment and business growth.
Economic analysts view the upcoming IMF review as a significant milestone in Pakistan’s broader effort to stabilize its economy, improve fiscal discipline, and maintain investor confidence in the region. The review will also serve as an opportunity for the IMF to provide guidance on enhancing economic competitiveness, ensuring sustainable debt management, and implementing policy measures that support both growth and social stability.
As Pakistan approaches the IMF mission later this month, the Finance Ministry’s emphasis on financial self-reliance, structural reforms, and macroeconomic stability positions the country to demonstrate both resilience and forward-looking economic planning. With strategic engagement from international partners like the UAE and continued reform initiatives, Pakistan aims to balance immediate fiscal challenges with long-term economic sustainability.
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