The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expressed its support for the standby agreement (SBA) between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in an effort to maintain macroeconomic stability and solid policies leading up to the national elections. The party’s chairman, Imran Khan, held a meeting at his residence in Lahore with the IMF Country Chief Nathan Porter, who joined virtually from Washington, and Resident Representative Esther Perez Ruiz. The discussion revolved around the recently reached staff-level agreement for a 9-month $3 billion standby arrangement. The PTI emphasized the importance of protecting lower-income segments from inflation while underscoring the significance of political stability and the rule of law in Pakistan’s economic stability.
Commitment to Macroeconomic Stability and Reforms
The PTI welcomed the SBA as a means to anchor external financing and foster sound policies, ensuring macroeconomic stability until a new government is formed after the upcoming national elections. The party emphasized its dedication to programs aimed at safeguarding the population from the impacts of high inflation. Moreover, the PTI affirmed its belief that political stability and the rule of law are fundamental to Pakistan’s economic stability. Once a new government, elected through fair and timely elections, takes office, it will focus on implementing reforms and engaging with multilateral institutions for long-term economic transformation and inclusive growth.
Address by PTI Chairman Imran Khan and Participants
PTI Chairman Imran Khan is expected to deliver a speech addressing the matter. Alongside Imran Khan, the PTI’s meeting included the participation of Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Hammad Azhar, Shaukat Tarin, Omer Ayub Khan, Dr. Sania Nishtar, Shibli Faraz, Taimur Jhagra, and Muzammil Aslam.
