- Pakistan’s economy is improving after government reforms: IMF chief.
- Highlights constructive talks with Islamabad over the years.
- IMF chief says PM, cabinet continued difficult reforms.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on Friday hailed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for implementing difficult reforms aimed at Pakistan’s development.
After meeting Prime Minister Shehbaz on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, the IMF managing director said Pakistan’s economy was improving after the government “seriously embraced reforms”.
“We are finally seeing that budget discipline is bringing resources that can be used to improve [the] people’s lives,” Georgieva said, adding that the IMF team looked forward to continuing the implementation of Pakistan’s program.
The IMF chief praised Prime Minister Shehbaz for honoring his commitment to reforms and said the lender has had very constructive engagements with Pakistan over the years.
“I have great respect for the Prime Minister. He is serious; when he gives his word that something will be done, it will be done,” she added.
She also highlighted continued engagement with Islamabad during meetings focused on the reform agenda.
“We always use the time effectively to identify where progress is being made, where there is still more to do,” she said. “And that was exactly the case this time. So my high respect for the seriousness of the Prime Minister and his cabinet to implement difficult reforms for the betterment of Pakistan.”
Last year, the IMF disbursed $1.2 billion to Pakistan under the Enhanced Fund Facility (EFF) and the Climate-Focused Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF).
The global lender, in its meeting on December 8, 2025, had approved a $1.2 billion loan to Pakistan after completing the second review of the country’s economic reform program under the EFF and the first review under the RSF.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz briefed the IMF director on Pakistan’s improved macroeconomic indicators, stabilization efforts and progress on structural reforms. He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to fiscal discipline, revenue mobilization and sustainable growth.
The IMF Managing Director recognized and appreciated Pakistan’s reform efforts and emphasized the importance of maintaining reform momentum to ensure long-term economic resilience.
Both sides exchanged views on the global economic outlook, challenges facing emerging economies and the importance of multilateral support to ensure economic stability.
