IMF chief encouraged by Pakistan’s reform commitment ahead of loan review

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has said she is "encouraged" by the government's commitment to reforms ahead of the first review of Pakistan's $7 billion loan program.

The remarks followed a meeting between Georgieva and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit 2025 to discuss Pakistan's economic progress and reform efforts.

"I am encouraged by their strong commitment to Pakistan's IMF-supported reforms and support their decisive actions to pave the way to higher growth and more jobs for Pakistan’s youthful population," Georgieva wrote in a post on X.

She highlighted Pakistan’s strong performance, with inflation easing, and acknowledged the country's steady path toward sustained economic recovery.

The IMF managing director also reaffirmed the IMF's commitment to supporting Pakistan's reform agenda, stressing the need for continued fiscal discipline, institutional reforms, and effective governance to ensure long-term economic stability.

During the meeting, Sharif briefed Georgieva on Pakistan's economic measures, particularly in taxation and energy sectors, and assured her of continued implementation, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s office.

Sharif highlighted the importance of the progress made under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility, which has played a key role in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy and putting it on the path to long-term recovery.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to achieving sustainable growth and financial stability, he retweeted, "We appreciate IMF’s continued support as Pakistan transitions from macroeconomic stability to a path of sustained economic growth and prosperity."

An IMF delegation is set to arrive in the first week of March to assess the country's economic landscape, including the performance of power and distribution companies, progress on state-run privatization, social protection initiatives, central bank policies, and revenue collection targets.