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ISLAMABAD: Advisor to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh held an introductory meeting with the newly appointed Country Director of the World Bank in Pakistan Mr Najy Benhassine.
Dr Shaikh welcomed the Country Director and appreciated the strong working relationship between the government of Pakistan and the World Bank. He highlighted the reforms initiated by the government to tackle the balance of payment crisis and bring stability to the economy.
The finance adviser shared details of how the pandemic has adversely impacted the economy and slowed down the reforms program. He outlined the steps taken by the government to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and stimulate the economy.
In particular, he highlighted the Prime Minister’s Ehsaas program where over 16 million vulnerable households have benefitted from cash transfers. Similarly, support provided to SMEs and business in the form of subsidised payroll loans, deferred loan repayments, and subsidy on power bills has supported economic activities during the pandemic induced downturn.
READ MORE: World Bank announces new Country Director for Pakistan