Pakistan Responds to India's IMF Maneuver Amid Terror Attack Fallout
Political Tensions Rise Over IMF Involvement
Islamabad: As the International Monetary Fund (IMF) prepares for a significant review meeting next week, Pakistan has labeled India's recent statement about seeking a review of Islamabad's financial assistance as 'politically motivated' in light of the recent Pahalgam terror incident.
According to reports from The Express Tribune, officials in Pakistan claim that India's efforts to engage the IMF are part of a broader strategy to diplomatically isolate Pakistan.
The IMF Executive Board is set to convene with Pakistani officials on May 9 to conduct the first assessment of the Extended Funding Facility (EFF) and to discuss a potential arrangement under the resilience and sustainability facility.
On Friday, India announced its intention to urge global financial institutions, including the IMF, to reassess the financial aid extended to Pakistan, particularly following the tragic April 22 attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists.
The Express Tribune reiterated that Pakistani officials view India's IMF involvement as an extension of its political agenda aimed at isolating Pakistan.
Authorities have identified five individuals, including three from Pakistan, as responsible for the Pahalgam attack.
Pakistan has dismissed these allegations and called for an unbiased international inquiry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on April 24, pledged to hold accountable those responsible for the Pahalgam attack, asserting that the attackers not only targeted innocent tourists but also struck at the heart of India.
During a high-level meeting with military leaders on April 29, Modi emphasized that the armed forces have full operational autonomy to determine the strategy, targets, and timing of India's response to the attack, as per government sources.
In the meantime, an adviser from Pakistan's Finance Ministry confirmed on Friday that the country's $7 billion IMF bailout, secured last year, is progressing well and is vital for maintaining macroeconomic stability.
Additionally, Islamabad received $1.3 billion in climate resilience funding in March 2025.
"This program is not only stabilizing Pakistan but also fostering confidence," stated finance adviser Khurram Schehzad. "The latest IMF review was successful, and our discussions with global financial institutions in Washington indicated strong investor interest."