Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif praised Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir’s efforts in obtaining financial commitments from friendly countries, which was one of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) last conditions for reinstating lending.
During a coalition party meeting, Sharif stated that the IMF agreement was in its final stages and that the army chief played a significant role in securing financial commitments from friendly countries. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s efforts were also commended by Sharif for their successful negotiations with the IMF.
Sharif expressed optimism that the IMF deal would be concluded soon and expressed confidence that the government would navigate economic difficulties. He acknowledged differences of opinion among coalition partners, but praised their role in addressing the country’s issues.
Additionally, he stated that he would discuss matters of mutual interest with new Chinese Premier Li Qiang in a forthcoming telephonic conversation. Finally, he referred to the ongoing controversy surrounding the Supreme Court verdict on general elections in Punjab, expressing his belief that the decision was contrary to the norms of justice.