PM ‘hopeful’ of finalising IMF deal in this Month

PM for devising budget plans considering economic situation,

Shebaz lashes out at PTI chief over human rights statement

Islamabad_Shehbaz Sharif has expressed hope in finalising a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month. In an exclusive interview with the Turkish News Agency “Anadolu,” he stated that the ninth review by the IMF would meet all terms and conditions, and there is optimism for positive news this month.

The prime minister mentioned that Pakistan has fulfilled all requirements of the IMF as prior actions. Regarding contingency plans in case the IMF talks collapse, he highlighted the resilience and determination of the Pakistani nation.

He stated that the people of Pakistan have faced challenges in the past and, if necessary, they will “tighten our belt” and rise again. He affirmed that his government has effectively navigated challenges with the support of the people of Pakistan and “brotherly and friendly countries.”

Discussing Pakistan-Turkey relations, the premier described them as “one soul, two hearts that beat together.”

He also congratulated the people of Turkey on President Erdogan’s reelection, considering it a “wonderful development.”

The premier expressed that Pakistan and Turkey will enhance cooperation in the near future to boost trade and facilitate mutual growth, with a focus on areas such as biogas, solar energy, and hydropower.

A meeting related to the Public Sector Development Program, chaired by the prime minister, discussed budget proposals for the upcoming financial year 2023-24.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting. It was also attended by parliamentary leaders of the coalition parties.

The meeting was briefed on the development budget by the ministries of finance and planning. It also considered the development schemes and funding of lawmakers.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said it is important to determine priorities in the current situation. He also directed to formulate economical and quality projects for the betterment of the masses.

Prime Minister Sharif also ordered to provide relief to the downtrodden in the budget. The PM said the Rs1,100 billion federal development program will play an important role in economic development.

He issued directives to the relevant departments to complete the ongoing public welfare projects immediately. He categorically said that plans should be formulated keeping in mind the economic situation.

Earlier,

Shehbaz Sharif criticised the PTI chief’s statement on human rights violations in Pakistan.

The prime minister took to Twitter and said that PTI chairman was purposefully misleading the international media by making false assertions concerning the human rights violations in Pakistan, specifically following the events of May 9.

Mr Sharif stated that the actions were taken after the May 9 incidents. “No country in the world will tolerate such an attempt to undermine the nation’s integrity. Criminals will be punished under the law to ensure that human rights are not compromised,” he added.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif asserted Pakistan’s adherence to its constitutional obligations in upholding human rights while calling out the PTI chief’s misleading statements as part of a larger strategy to put undue pressure on Pakistan.