Talks between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the $7 billion loan programme continued on the second consecutive day on Tuesday. The Fund’s delegation, presently on a tour to Pakistan, met with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb in Islamabad. The finance secretary and the FBR chairman were also present at the meeting.The minister informed the delegation of the country’s present economic situation. He also briefed them about the agenda for economic reforms.  

The preparation of this report was directed by the Ministry of Finance in response to the IMF’s new set of requirements, which were revealed by sources within the Planning Commission. The discussions also covered Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) spending and potential budgetary adjustments for the current fiscal year. Ministry officials provided an overview of Pakistan’s economic performance and expenditure strategies in an introductory briefing, sources added.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)