June 19, 2023 (MLN): Pakistan’s absence from the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) tentative calendar of formal meetings has ignited speculation as market participants jumped into premature conclusions without knowing the reason.
The reason behind this absence lies in the fact that the government and IMF have yet to finalize the Staff Level Agreement (SLA). Once the agreement is signed, Pakistan’s name will promptly find its place in the calendar.
Hence, Pakistan’s absence from the calendar is not indicative of a gloomy outlook for the country.
Looking ahead, as negotiations progress and the SLA is signed, Pakistan’s inclusion in upcoming IMF meetings becomes highly likely.
To recall, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Ishaq Dar on Thursday said that the 9th review of the IMF program will be completed this month.
“Our talks with the IMF have not concluded yet. Thus, in my view IMF program has not ended yet,” he added.
He further assured that there is no issue with payments till June 30. “We are fully prepared to make timely payments till June 30.”
