Pakistan’s economy is showing promising signs of long-term recovery, driven by a stabilisation programme supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), according to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. His remarks came just ahead of the first review of the $7-billion IMF bailout, scheduled for early March.

The Prime Minister shared these insights during a meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on Tuesday, which took place at the World Government Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai. The meeting highlighted the significant progress made under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which has been a key element in stabilising Pakistan’s economy and positioning it for sustained growth.

Sharif expressed confidence that both the government and the central bank are well on track to meet the necessary targets ahead of the upcoming IMF review. Despite the challenges Pakistan faces, particularly in navigating its economic recovery, the country’s strengthened position following the bailout in September has provided much-needed support.

The discussions also centred on the government’s comprehensive reform agenda, which aligns with the IMF programme’s focus on achieving macroeconomic stability. The Prime Minister emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to implementing structural reforms, adhering to fiscal discipline, and pursuing improvements in key sectors like taxation, energy efficiency, and private sector development.

Pakistan’s continued commitment to these reforms and the IMF-backed stabilisation plan is set to play a crucial role in securing its economic future. Additionally, a three-member IMF mission is currently in Pakistan to assess the progress under the EFF programme.