Discussions will include climate funding, with Pakistan expecting to receive between $1 billion and $1.5 billion.

According to the finance minister, initial talks with the IMF delegation will focus on structural matters, while the mission for the semi-annual review of the loan programme is scheduled for March.

He assured that all matters related to the IMF program are moving in the right direction.

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Pakistan aims to boost exports to $60 billion in five years: finance minister Discussing the national economy, Muhammad Aurangzeb revealed that last month’s current account deficit turned negative, while the seven-month current account trend remains positive.

He emphasised that economic growth must be managed cautiously to avoid another boom-and-bust cycle.

The minister stressed that structural reforms are necessary to reshape the country’s economic framework.

Unnecessary subsidies

Earlier, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stated that Pakistan cannot afford unnecessary subsidies.

Addressing a ceremony, he said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his economic team are committed to ensuring economic stability.

He reiterated that Pakistan’s economy is now on the right track and progressing toward sustainable growth.

The government, he added, has finalised a comprehensive rightsizing plan, which will be implemented after reviewing all institutional matters.

Aurangzeb highlighted recent pension reforms and their positive impact on tax revenues.

He stated that fundamental economic reforms are underway to achieve financial stability.

The minister also discussed efforts to enhance transparency in the privatisation process and reduce government expenditures.

He pointed out that the continuous decline in the policy rate benefits the business community and investors.

He further mentioned that provincial governments are working on agricultural taxation, while a reduction in the policy rate will further strengthen the economy.