IMF official shouldn’t interfere in domestic politics: state minister for finance

 

On Wednesday, Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Dr Aisha Ghaus Pasha responded to International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission chief Nathan Porter's comments about the country's political situation, stating that he should refrain from interfering in domestic political matters. While the IMF typically avoids commenting on internal politics, Porter expressed the hope for a peaceful resolution in line with the Constitution and the rule of law in a statement on Tuesday. These remarks come at a time when the country is still awaiting the long-delayed signing of a staff-level agreement that would unlock $1.1 billion in financing as part of a $7 billion IMF package.

Dr Ghaus addressed reporters today, stating that Porter should not involve himself in domestic political matters. She also mentioned that they had not been officially informed of his exact comments, stating, "I think what the IMF has said is extraordinary. Usually, the IMF does not make such statements based on my study of their engagement with other countries." When asked about raising the issue with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, Dr Ghaus noted that it had not been discussed.

While the IMF prepares to discuss Pakistan's budget plans for the upcoming financial year, Dr Ghaus stated that the finance ministry is working on the budget, taking into account the country's IMF program and maintaining continuous engagement with the organization. She emphasized the goal of providing relief to the general public and avoiding additional burdens in the current circumstances. The minister confirmed that preparations for presenting the budget in the National Assembly on June 9 were underway, following the budget calendar.

Dr Ghaus dismissed speculations of a difference of opinion between Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding dialogue with the IMF. She stated that the entire economic team was in agreement, and the prime minister was representing the government's stance. Regarding discussions with the IMF, Dr Ghaus mentioned that they had conveyed the message that the delay in signing the agreement was detrimental to both parties and called for a prompt resolution, considering the program's expiration on June 30.

The government has expressed its commitment to completing the IMF program to the Fund's managing director, according to Dr Ghaus. She highlighted that the nation is aware of the economic situation, including businesspeople who understand the country's involvement in the IMF program. Dr Ghaus also confirmed that there were no discussions about extending the program beyond June 30, as it had already been extended once. Regarding the future, she stated that decisions about entering another IMF program would be considered after the current program reaches its conclusion.