NEW YORK: International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has praised Pakistan’s progress under its reform programme, saying strong implementation has helped preserve economic stability, restore confidence and regain access to international markets.
Georgieva made the remarks after meeting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The two discussed Pakistan’s economic reforms, the country’s upcoming IMF programme review and continued cooperation between Islamabad and the global lender.
“Strong implementation has helped preserve stability, restore confidence and regain market access,” Georgieva said in a social media post following the meeting.
She added that continued reforms could help boost economic growth and improve living standards.
Shehbaz reaffirms commitment to IMF programme
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz appreciated the IMF’s continued support for Pakistan and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to implementing the IMF-supported reform programme.
He also acknowledged Georgieva’s role in strengthening what he described as a constructive partnership between Pakistan and the Fund.
Shehbaz said Pakistan was gradually moving from macroeconomic stabilisation towards economic recovery despite regional conflicts and external inflationary pressures.
“I reaffirmed our government’s strong ownership of the reform agenda and our resolve to stay the course,” the prime minister said.
Shehbaz highlights GSP Plus as Pakistan seeks stronger EU partnership
He pointed to improvements in fiscal discipline, stronger external buffers and growing investor confidence as signs of progress in the economy.
The prime minister also highlighted measures including the National Tariff Regime, increased domestic revenue mobilisation and progress on the government’s privatisation agenda.
I had the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister @CMShehbaz on the margins of #UNGA to discuss Pakistan’s reforms. Strong implementation has helped preserve stability, restore confidence & regain market access. Continued reforms will help lift growth & improve people’s lives. pic.twitter.com/jiELSQysYw
— Kristalina Georgieva (@KGeorgieva) September 23, 2026
IMF appreciates Pakistan’s economic progress
Georgieva also appreciated Pakistan’s performance under the IMF programme and the government’s efforts to stabilise the economy, saying the measures were producing tangible results.
The two sides discussed Pakistan’s forthcoming programme review and ways to maintain cooperation on reforms, strengthen economic resilience and support sustainable growth.
Shehbaz stressed that economic reforms would continue alongside measures aimed at protecting vulnerable segments of society.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Adviser on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi and other senior officials.
The discussions come as Pakistan seeks to maintain the progress achieved through its economic stabilisation programme while advancing structural reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal management, investment and long-term growth.
