Lender usually follows carrot and stick formula and its conditions are almost universal in nature

Countries that have benefitted from free trade have first liberalised economy unilaterally

Natural gas has always been a great blessing for Pakistan

Time to turn to outward-looking policies, emulate successful emerging economies

Despite deliberations, govt fails to finalise national water policy in four years

Country is not in sync with the rest of the world as far as its policies are concerned

Positive measures are undone by slow speed and other conflicting steps

Total debt has risen to Rs20,872 billion compared to Rs14,318 billion in 2013

Most budgetary measures suit ruling elite; poverty alleviation, education and water get scant attention

Project could become real game changer if attention is paid to 6 major areas