PM appreciates IMF for staff level agreement on $7bn loan

Shehbaz Sharif also meets IMF managing director and European Commission president

Mumtaz Hussain

NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), on the sidelines of the UNGA in New York.

Appreciating the collaboration with IMF for successful Staff Level Agreement (SLA) for a 37 month $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for Pakistan, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing structural reforms and promoting private sector development.

He also expressed appreciation for the IMF’s technical assistance and capacity-building programs, which have helped to strengthen the country’s institutions and improve its economic management.

The IMF Managing Director expressed the Fund’s support for Pakistan’s efforts and emphasized the importance of maintaining macroeconomic stability and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.

During the meeting, they also discussed the urgent need of mobilizing adaptation financing for climate change. The Prime Minister agreed to have the Finance Minister take up this critical issue with senior management at the IMF during the Annual Meetings in October.

MEETING WITH EU PRESIDENT

The prime minister also met President of European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen and discussed a wide array of topics, including bilateral relations, regional and global issues.

The prime minister congratulated Ms Ursula on her re-election as the President of the European Commission and commended her unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of the European Union.

He emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to strengthening its relationship with the European Union, underlining the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in advancing shared goals.

Commenting on the GSP-Plus Scheme, the Prime Minister mentioned that Pakistan has demonstrated consistent political commitment to fully implement the GSP Plus related international conventions.

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