ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has conveyed profound gratitude to Managing Director International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva for her support and assistance in materializing the stand-by agreement with Pakistan.
During a telephonic conversation, the prime minister appreciated the IMF chief for her leadership and professionalism. He also acknowledged that MD for her invaluable support.
The IMF MD said that Prime Minister of Pakistan built a convincing case, even though the IMF Board was skeptical about Pakistan’s commitment to fulfilling the conditions of the agreement due to the past trust deficit.
However, in the light of her continued engagement with the prime minister, she assured the IMF Board that Pakistan will deliver on its commitments as she had personally met the prime minister and seen his seriousness to deliver.
She acknowledged the leadership shown by prime minister. She underlined that there was strong partnership and mutual trust between both parties now. Terming Pakistan as an important member of IMF, she reassured to continue to help Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz Sharif appreciated Ms Georgieva for her positive approach and her frank comments during their recent interaction with her in Paris. Eventually, the hard work on both sides paid off and Standby Arrangement (SBA) was signed.
The prime minister reassured that he will not tolerate any violation of this agreement. “This government is here till August after which an interim government will take over and he is confident that they will continue to fulfill the obligations,” he said.
“After elections, if the people of Pakistan re-elected his government, he was committed to turning around the economy with the help of IMF and development partners,” he added.
Referring to Pakistan’s best quality mangoes, the Prime Minister said it will be an honour to send a gift of Pakistani mangoes to the Managing Director as a token of respect and deep appreciation.
