ISLAMABAD: Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced that Pakistan will enter detailed negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the third economic review under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme, while rejecting worries about the rollover of deposits from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Addressing the media, Aurangzeb said the IMF delegation has reached Karachi and will commence formal discussions with Pakistani officials in Islamabad from Monday. The talks will take place as part of the third economic review and will examine performance benchmarks, fiscal objectives, and overall macroeconomic indicators.
“The IMF review will cover all performance criteria under the programme. We are in a good position, particularly about tax collection,” the finance minister said, voicing confidence in the government’s fiscal handling.
He noted that comprehensive discussions would focus on the revenue performance of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), adding that tax collection has improved in recent months. Officials will update the IMF team on progress toward agreed targets.
Aurangzeb also brushed aside concerns about the rollover of UAE deposits, saying Islamabad maintains close coordination with Emirati authorities.
“There is no issue regarding the rollover. We are in constant engagement with the UAE,” he said, questioning the basis for any apprehension.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the minister said Pakistan continues to implement the financing plan agreed upon with the IMF and remains dedicated to meeting its obligations under the programme.
He further pointed to advancements in digital finance reforms and expressed optimism that cryptocurrency legislation would soon gain approval. According to Aurangzeb, the government is working to place cryptocurrency and tokenization within a formal regulatory framework to encourage innovation while ensuring proper oversight. “We are moving forward with cryptocurrency in a structured manner,” the minister added.
