Bahador Bijani, Executive Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), has expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic outlook, emphasizing positive strides made by Pakistani authorities. Speaking at an event hosted by Masood Khan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US, the IMF official commended the country’s overall economic improvement.
During the gathering at Pakistan House, attended by representatives from key International Financial Institutions (IFIs) such as the IMF, International Finance Corporation (IFC), World Bank (WB), and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), Bahador Bijani stated, “I think the future for Pakistan is very bright. It’s one of the most important countries in the region and in the world. Pakistanis deserve much more.”
The remarks come amid Pakistan’s continued engagement in an IMF program, with the country operating under a caretaker government. Nathan Porter, IMF Mission Chief to Pakistan, addressed the gathering, expressing satisfaction with recent developments. He highlighted the interim government’s actions and policies, emphasizing their commitment to steering the country towards stabilization.
Porter added, “With this foundation, hopefully, we can build on and move forward with reforms to create a stronger, prosperous, and inclusive Pakistan.” The IMF representative also lauded the cooperation and fiscal stability efforts of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
Athanasios Arvanitis, Deputy Director of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the IMF, spoke during the event, expressing hope that the upcoming February elections in Pakistan would bring about the necessary reforms for the country’s progress. Syed Ali Abbas, Advisor Mission Chief UK, European Department IMF, echoed similar sentiments, anticipating a long-term and more durable approach following the successful completion of the electoral process in Pakistan.
