PM expresses gratitude to MD IMF for SBA of $3bn

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had a telephonic conversation with Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva and conveyed profound gratitude to her for support and assistance in materializing the recently concluded Stand-by Agreement for three billion dollars.

The prime minister appreciated the IMF managing director for her leadership and professionalism.

The IMF MD said the prime minister built a very convincing case, though the IMF Board was skeptical about Pakistan's commitment to fulfilling the conditions of agreement due to the past trust deficit.

Terming Pakistan an important member of the IMF, she reassured to continue to help the country.

Additionally, the Prime Minister emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards any breaches of the agreement and reaffirmed the commitment of the current government to fulfill its obligations until August, at which point an interim government would assume responsibility. He expressed confidence in his government's ability to collaborate with the IMF and development partners in revitalizing the economy if re-elected.

In a gesture of respect and appreciation, the Prime Minister announced his intention to present a gift of Pakistani mangoes to the IMF Managing Director, showcasing the exceptional quality of the country's produce.