Shehbaz optimistic about IMF’s 9th review this month, expects team in next 2-3 days

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his optimism about smooth sailing of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) programme this month and said the Fund’s team is due in Pakistan in next two to three days to give a formal nod to its much-awaited 9th review.

The PM who is leaving for Geneva on Sunday to co-host an International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan — along with United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres on January 9 — shared this while addressing a ceremony to launch Hazara Electric Company in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hazara region.

The prime minister said that he held a telephonic conversation with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and made it clear to her that Pakistan was “committed to successfully completing the Fund’s ongoing programme.” I told her that the government had already taxed the rich but could not burden the poor more, he further said.

“I briefed the MD of the Fund about the country’s economic situation adversely affected by the worst floods last year,” said the prime minister.

In response, she assured that her team would be visiting Pakistan for a review within two to three days, Shehbaz Sharif said.

The prime minister said that he also assured the IMF head that unlike the previous government, his government would make sure that all commitments with the IMF are fulfilled without further burdening the masses.

He also invited the IMF’s head to participate in the Geneva conference.

At the climate resilient conference which is going to serve as a platform to shore in international support for the people and Government of Pakistan in the aftermath of devastating natural calamity Pakistan will present the Resilient Recovery, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Framework (4RF).

This will enhance the country’s efforts to build back better in a resilient manner after the recent devastating floods.

According to the 4RF document, a prioritised and sequential plan, defined at the federal and provincial levels will be set in motion. It includes the financial mechanism and institutional arrangements for its execution in an open, transparent and collaborative manner.

The conference will feature a high-level segment to be co-chaired by Prime Minister Sharif and UN Secretary General Guterres, followed by the official launch of the 4RF document and partner support announcements.

The prime minister and UN Secretary General will also hold a joint presser and brief the world through media about rehabilitation efforts of the affected population and reconstructing the damaged infrastructure.