IMF Chief Commends Pakistan's Serious Reform Efforts at Davos Forum
International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has publicly praised the Pakistani government for its serious commitment to implementing crucial economic reforms under the country's program requirements. Speaking exclusively to Pakistan TV on the sidelines of the 56th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Georgieva emphasized that the government's dedication is already yielding tangible results that benefit the nation's economic landscape.
Visible Results from Budget Discipline
The IMF chief specifically highlighted that Pakistan's budget discipline is finally generating resources that can be effectively deployed to improve the lives of ordinary citizens. "Pakistani government has seriously embraced reforms and the fruits of action are already there," Georgieva stated during her television interview. She further elaborated that "we are finally seeing the budget discipline bringing resources that can be deployed to improve lives of people," indicating a positive shift in fiscal management.
Constructive Engagement with Pakistani Leadership
Georgieva revealed that the IMF has maintained constructive engagement with Pakistan for an extended period and expressed particular respect for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership approach. "When he gives his word that something would be done, it gets done," she remarked, characterizing the prime minister as serious and committed to his promises. The IMF managing director described her meetings with Pakistani leadership as consistently productive, with discussions focusing on:
- Identifying areas where significant progress has been achieved
- Pinpointing sectors requiring additional work and attention
- Maintaining a consistent approach throughout all engagements
Prime Minister's Briefing on Economic Improvements
These commendations came just one day after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Georgieva during the World Economic Forum gathering. During their meeting, the premier provided a comprehensive briefing on Pakistan's improving economic indicators, including:
- Notable improvements in macroeconomic indicators
- Ongoing efforts toward economic stability
- Substantial progress on institutional reforms
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan's firm commitment to fiscal discipline, revenue mobilization, and sustainable development initiatives that align with international standards and expectations.
Continued Implementation and Global Cooperation
Georgieva expressed her anticipation for the continued implementation of what she described as "a Pakistani program," emphasizing the domestic ownership of the reform agenda. The IMF chief acknowledged Pakistan's reform efforts and commended the progress made thus far, while simultaneously stressing the importance of maintaining the current pace of reforms to ensure long-term economic resilience and stability.
During their discussions, both sides exchanged perspectives on the global economic outlook, challenges confronting emerging economies, and the critical importance of multilateral cooperation in maintaining economic stability across international markets. Georgieva's positive assessment represents significant international validation of Pakistan's economic reform trajectory at a crucial global platform.
