IMF encourages resolution of all electoral disputes, doesn't comment on political issues: declaration

ISLAMABAD (92 News) - The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in response to a letter from a PTI spokesperson on February 28 regarding the fund’s engagement with Pakistan under the program, has stated that the IMF, as an international institution with a narrow mandate on economic issues, does not comment on domestic political developments.

In a declaration it said: "However, given the importance of the institutional environment for economic stability and growth, we do encourage the fair and peaceful resolution of all electoral disputes.

"In terms of our engagement with Pakistan, our aim is to support the implementation of strong policies to deepen financial stability, address longstanding economic and underlying balance of payments challenges, and restore sustained and inclusive growth for the benefit of all Pakistani citizens. This includes stronger public finances, through high quality revenue measures to broaden the tax base while scaling up the support for the most vulnerable, restoring energy sector viability, improving institutional governance and anti-corruption effectiveness, SOE reform, building climate resilience, and creating a level playing field for private businesses to promote investment and job creation."

The declaration stated that on the basis of these objectives, they look forward to engaging with the new government to complete the second review under the current Stand-by Arrangement and, should the government request, support the formulation of a new medium-term economic program.