Web Desk
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism about finalizing a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month, stating that Pakistan is “very hopeful” of the program materializing. In an interview with Turkiye’s Anadolu Agency, PM Shehbaz mentioned that the ninth review by the IMF would meet all terms and conditions, potentially bringing good news in the coming weeks.
Additionally, the prime minister held discussions with parties in the ruling PDM regarding next year’s budget. He assured that due process of law would be ensured for those involved in the May 9 riots. PM Shehbaz also emphasized his government’s commitment to curbing plastic pollution, stating that they were actively working with national and international stakeholders to develop a legal instrument for this purpose.
Regarding the IMF talks, PM Shehbaz highlighted that Pakistan had met all the conditionalities set by the IMF as prior actions. He mentioned that if the talks were to fall through, the people of Pakistan had faced challenges in the past and would persevere by tightening their belts and rising again.
The prime minister attributed the current issues faced by the country to the policies of the previous government, the devastating floods in August, and international inflation. He recalled that in April 2022, Pakistan was on the verge of default due to the violation of the IMF agreement by the government at that time.
Regarding the vandalism that occurred after the arrest of the PTI chief, PM Shehbaz stated that Imran Khan faced charges of serious corruption, malpractice, and wheeling-dealing, and it was the law’s responsibility to deal with this. He mentioned that individuals involved in attacking civilian installations would be tried under civilian law, while those who attacked military installations and desecrated institutions would be tried under the military act. The prime minister assured that the culprits would be dealt with according to the law, and he would ensure that no rights violations took place.
In his meetings, PM Shehbaz discussed enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and Turkey in various sectors such as biogas, solar energy, and hydropower.
Regarding the upcoming budget, the prime minister informed the ruling coalition allies that the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) would be increased from Rs700 billion to Rs950 billion to boost GDP growth and provide job opportunities. Special incentives for the poor and mediocre, direct subsidies on fertilizers for farmers, and expanding the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) were among the priorities discussed.
Prime Minister Shehbaz rejected the claims made by Imran Khan in his interviews, stating that they were misleading and aimed at manipulating opinion-makers. He also mentioned the government’s active efforts to develop a legal instrument to combat plastic pollution in collaboration with national and international stakeholders.
