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"PMO Press Release no 376 /2026Prime Minister OfficeMedia WingNew York: 23 September, 2026Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with Managing Director International Monetary Fund (IMF) Ms. Kristalina Georgieva on the sidelines of UN General Assembly 2026Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif met with Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.The Prime Minister appreciated the IMFs continued support for Pakistan's economy and reaffirmed his Government's unwavering commitment to the successful implementation of the IMF-supported reform programme. He particularly appreciated the Managing Director's role in strengthening Pakistan's constructive partnership with the Fund.The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Governments strong ownership of the economic reform agenda and reiterated Pakistans strong resolve to maintain the momentum of reforms and advance structural measures aimed at strengthening the economy and laying the foundations for sustainable and inclusive growth.The Prime Minister further noted that, despite regional conflict and external inflationary pressures, Pakistan was successfully transitioning from macroeconomic stabilization towards a recovery path, supported by prudent fiscal and monetary policies. He highlighted improvements in fiscal discipline, external buffers and investor confidence. He cited the National Tariff Regime, enhanced domestic revenue mobilization, and progress on privatization as examples of Pakistan's efforts.The Prime Minister also underscored the Governments commitment to protecting vulnerable segments of society alongside maintaining economic reforms. The Managing Director appreciated Pakistan's performance under the IMF programme and the Government's efforts for economic stabilization, that were yielding tangible results.The two leaders also discussed Pakistans forthcoming IMF programme review and the continued cooperation between Pakistan and the Fund in advancing reforms, strengthening economic resilience and supporting sustainable growth. Deputy Prime Minister & Foreign Minister Sen.Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Advisor on Privatization Muhammad Ali, SAPM Tariq Fatemi and other senior officials were also present during the meeting."
On September 23, 2026, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a critical meeting with the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva, during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. This meeting signifies Pakistan's ongoing commitment to fiscal reform and economic stabilization, amidst regional challenges and global pressures.
Prime Minister Sharif expressed appreciation for the IMF's steadfast support, emphasizing the Pakistani Government's unwavering commitment to the successful implementation of an IMF-supported reform program. With a clear focus on structural measures, he reassured the audience of the countrys resolve to foster an environment conducive to sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Despite facing external inflationary pressures and regional conflict, Pakistan is navigating a transition from macroeconomic stabilization to recovery, supported by prudent fiscal and monetary policies.
The Prime Minister cited notable improvements in fiscal discipline and external buffers and hinted at rising investor confidence as indicators of the countrys progress. Key initiatives like the National Tariff Regime, mobilization of domestic revenue, and strides in privatization showcase the commitment of the Pakistani Government to enhance its economic framework.
During the meeting, Georgieva recognized Pakistan's achievements under the IMF program, praising the Governments efforts to stabilize the economy, which have begun to yield tangible results. The positive discourse between the two leaders reflects a constructive partnership aimed at reinforcing economic resilience and supporting sustainable growth in Pakistan. The positive tone resonates internationally, allowing Pakistan to build stronger ties with global financial institutions and the international community.
As Pakistan prepares for the forthcoming IMF program review, the dialogue between Prime Minister Sharif and Kristalina Georgieva augurs well for future cooperation, which is crucial for advancing reforms and fortifying economic foundations. The commitment to protecting vulnerable segments of society while pursuing economic reforms will further entrench public support and confidence in the government's initiatives.
In conclusion, Pakistans engagement with the IMF demonstrates a proactive approach towards economic improvement and resilience. The Government's focus on maintaining reform momentum while ensuring social protection indicates a balanced strategy aimed at navigating current challenges and seizing future opportunities for growth.
