PM Shehbaz, Field Marshal Asim Munir steer economy toward stability: IMF

KARACHI: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday lauded his economic team and the pivotal support of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, following the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) approval of a $1.2 billion tranche under its ongoing programme with Pakistan.
In a statement, the prime minister said the IMF’s satisfaction with Pakistan’s performance reflected the competence, discipline, and unwavering dedication of the government’s economic management. He praised Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb and his team for leading the reform process with “tireless commitment and professional excellence.”
PM Shehbaz credited Field Marshal Asim Munir for playing a “supportive and decisive role” in ensuring the implementation of economic reforms and restoring confidence in Pakistan’s economic direction. “The IMF tranche demonstrates that Pakistan is steadfastly carrying out structural reforms crucial for long-term stability and sustainable growth,” he said.
He noted that steering the country away from an imminent default had been an “extraordinarily challenging journey,” achieved only through the political sacrifices of various parties and the economic hardships endured by the public. “Today’s success belongs to the people who faced difficulties with patience for the sake of Pakistan’s future,” he added.
The prime minister said Pakistan’s digitization and reform drive had now become a “successful global case study,” admired internationally for its pace and effectiveness. “Insha Allah, the dream of Pakistan’s economic prosperity will soon come true,” he remarked with optimism.
PM Shehbaz emphasized that with stability achieved, the economy was now moving toward a growth phase that requires even more hard work, consistency, and policy continuity. He reaffirmed his commitment to serve as “Khadim-e-Pakistan,” pledging to work relentlessly until the nation achieves real prosperity and independence from foreign debt.
“The time is not far when Pakistan will achieve complete riddance from debts and stand as an economically self-sufficient nation,” the prime minister said.
The IMF’s approval and the government’s reforms have boosted investor confidence, marking a critical milestone in Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to rebuild economic strength and secure long-term financial stability.