ISLAMABAD: A team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has arrived in Pakistan to discuss crucial governance reforms and strengthen the country’s anti-corruption mechanisms.
The IMF mission, which arrived in Islamabad on February 6, is scheduled to stay until February 14. The visit is a part of ongoing efforts to ensure that Pakistan meets conditions for the $7 billion bailout package secured with the IMF.
During its stay, the IMF team will be briefed by the Ministry of Law on legislative measures designed to combat corruption. Discussions will also focus on the enforcement of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) targets, which are a key aspect of the country’s financial integrity efforts.
The IMF delegation will hold meetings with officials from Pakistan's National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the judiciary, and various ministries to review anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, and rule of law measures. These areas are integral to Pakistan’s commitments under the IMF bailout program. The team will also meet with officials from the Judicial Commission of Pakistan and the Supreme Court to discuss the independence of the judiciary and the appointment mechanism for judges.
This visit is critical for assessing Pakistan's progress in aligning with IMF conditions, especially with regard to improving transparency, legal reforms, and strengthening institutions to combat corruption and money laundering. The IMF’s review mission is also expected to return later in February to discuss the first review of the $7 billion package.
