US urges Pakistan to implement IMF reforms for sound economy
Pakistan
Says strong prosperous and democratic Pakistan is essential for the interests of both our countries
WASHINGTON (Web Desk) – US has urged Pakistan to implement the conditions laid forth by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in order to put the country back on track leading to stable economy.
The South Asian country has been scrambling to revive the IMF loan programme for months amid depleting foreign exchange reserves. It hopes release of the crucial funds in coming days as it has met the global lender’s conditions, including assurances for external finances.
"The reform(s) that Pakistan and the IMF agreed to are not easy, but it's crucial that Pakistan take these actions to bring the country back to sound financial footing, avoid falling into further debt and grow Pakistan's economy," said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Elizabeth Horst while addressing a conference on “The Future of Pakistan-US relations” at renowned US thin-tank Wilson Centre in Washington.
She said that Pak-US relationship was “one of the most consequential for each other, for South Asia and for the world.
Noting close cooperation between the two countries in a host of areas including trade and investment, climate change, security and regional security, Ms. Horst highlighted TIFA meeting setting the stage for greater interaction between the two countries in the area of expanding bilateral trade and investment.
Dilating upon Pakistan’s relations with the world, Ms. Horst said that “Pakistan is a sovereign country. It has made and always will make its own choices. It has a lot of partnerships. The United States respects that. She said a strong prosperous and democratic Pakistan is essential for the interests of both our countries and both our peoples. The best way to do that is through continued cooperation.
