A three-member International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission will visit Pakistan to assess governance and corruption risks. The assessment is part of Pakistan’s 2024 Extended Fund Facility program. The finance ministry announced the visit on Sunday but did not specify the exact dates.
Key Areas Under Review
The mission will examine corruption vulnerabilities across six core state functions. These include fiscal governance, central bank governance, financial sector oversight, market regulation, rule of law, and anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML-CFT). The report will outline recommendations to strengthen governance and transparency.
Government Welcomes Technical Support
Pakistan’s government supports the IMF’s technical assistance for governance improvements. The finance ministry stated that the assessment would help enhance institutional capacity. Officials believe the findings will shape structural reforms and contribute to long-term economic stability.
Pakistan’s Economic Recovery and IMF Review
Pakistan secured a $7 billion IMF loan in September to stabilize its economy. The country is currently in the process of economic recovery, with inflationary pressures easing. The IMF is scheduled to review Pakistan’s progress by March. The government and the central bank remain optimistic about meeting the required targets.
Strengthening Economic Reforms
The IMF’s assessment aligns with Pakistan’s broader economic reform agenda. Authorities are working on policy measures to enhance transparency in financial transactions. Stronger fiscal governance and market regulations are key priorities for ensuring economic stability.
The IMF’s governance and corruption assessment will play a crucial role in shaping Pakistan’s economic future. The government remains committed to implementing reforms that boost investor confidence. The upcoming IMF review in March will be a key milestone in evaluating Pakistan’s progress.
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