PM Shehbaz Sharif Highlights IMF Program Completion and Regional Concerns

Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, announced that the completion of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) program was made possible through the cooperation of friendly nations, particularly Saudi Arabia. Upon returning from a visit to the United States, he addressed journalists in London, expressing gratitude to these nations for their support.

“I would like to especially thank our brother countries, Saudi Arabia, China, and the UAE, for their contributions; the IMF program would not have been finalized without them,” he stated.

During his remarks, Sharif emphasized his efforts to enhance Pakistan’s relationships with allied nations. “I aimed to raise the voice of the Pakistani people on the global stage, highlighting the atrocities in Palestine and the attacks in Lebanon.”

The Prime Minister called for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, stressing the need for Palestine to have representation at the United Nations.

Turning to the issue of Kashmir, Sharif said, “The people of Kashmir have been fighting for their freedom for decades, bravely resisting the oppression of Indian forces. The Modi government stripped them of their rights in August 2019, and the international community must support the Kashmiris and ensure they receive their due rights.”

He also addressed Pakistan’s economic challenges, stating, “In the past sixteen months, we have worked diligently to prevent Pakistan from defaulting. Our $7 billion IMF program has now been approved.”

Noting the current inflation rate of 9.6% and the State Bank’s reduction of the interest rate to 17.5%, he added, “While we are moving towards economic growth, much work remains to be done.”

Sharif further pointed out that imposing additional burdens on already-taxed individuals would hinder progress. “It is now time for the elite to make sacrifices; I am confident they will contribute to Pakistan’s development.”

He acknowledged the personal efforts of the Chief of Army Staff in achieving success and remarked on the events of May 9, stating, “The attack on Jinnah House and the desecration of martyrs’ graves were unforgivable crimes, and there will be no compromise on this matter.”