ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is hopeful that Pakistan’s $7 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will soon get the green light. His administration is working hard to meet the IMF’s demands, which include tough reforms aimed at boosting tax revenue and improving fiscal health. These measures have included a stringent budget plan to raise 13 trillion rupees by next year and significant hikes in energy tariffs, which have been tough on many people.
In a recent cabinet meeting, Sharif reassured that all the required steps are being carefully followed. He expressed optimism that the IMF’s executive board will approve the bailout soon, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Pakistan. Sharif also highlighted that this should be the country’s final loan agreement with the IMF, reflecting on Pakistan’s long history of seeking financial aid since joining the IMF in 1950.
