ISLAMABAD: A delegation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) arrived in Pakistan on Monday to discuss technical aspects for the bailout programme.
According to the spokesman for the Ministry of Finance, Dr Khaqan Najeeb, the IMF team will meet officials of the ministry, the Federal Board of Revenue and the State Bank during its visit.
“The two sides will discuss the possibility of a $7 to $8 billion loan for Pakistan,” he said.
Earlier, Najeeb had said that the purpose of the visit is to hold technical negotiations for progress on IMF programme while adding that the preparation of an economic framework is in the final phase for dialogues with the IMF team. “Concerned departments and organisations will participate in the talks with the delegation.”
The spokesperson had said the delegation will hold a meeting with State Bank and Privatisation officials, adding that the tax officials will also hold talks with the IMF team.
While talking to media in Washington, former finance minister Asad Umar had said that government was working on structural changes in the economy. He said it has been decided in principle to start the IMF mission and the decision has been taken in the best interest of the national economy.
The ex-finance minister said that the IMF program will bring improvement in the economy, adding that delegation will visit Pakistan in coming weeks to finalize technical details. To a question, Asad Umar said trade activities in the region will improve the living standard of the people. He said Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his desire to improve relations with India in his first speech and offered to enhance trade relations.
He said the gas agreement with Turkmenistan has been signed while the Free Trade Agreement with Turkey will be concluded soon.