No deal reached with IMF yet, clarifies Umar

Meeting aimed to build common ground between Pakistan and IMF's top leadership, says finance minister

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Finance Minister Asad Umar clarified on Monday that Prime Minister Imran Khan's meeting with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde on Sunday, which took place on the sidelines of the World Government Summit, " was not a negotiation round and no deal was reached between the two sides."

Addressing a ceremony at the Peshawar Chamber of Commerce, Umar stated that the meeting was merely meant to build common ground between Pakistan and IMF's top leadership. However no deal was reached between the two sides, the minister clarified.



Umar however, informed that, Pakistan is close to signing an agreement of an economic assistance package with the IMF, Radio Pakistan reported.

The IMF is committed in supporting Pakistan, Umar stated.

Peshawar is a key trade point for South Asia and Afghanistan, the minister said, adding that Pakistan will do whatever possible for Afghan peace.

"Our exports have reduced, and we need to increase trade with countries within as well as outside the region."



We are improving relations with east and west including China, Umar stated, adding that we need to increase trade with Afghanistan and Iran."

We have issues with India but trade should be conducted as it will improve situation, the minister said, adding that he also discussed the formation of a strategic economic framework with the Turkish vice president.

The minister also reassured the traders that he would take note of their recommendations and present them to the prime minister.

The minister also highlighted on the need to improve the tax system and increasing the tax net for the progress of the country. He added that a pilot project will be introduced for traders in Islamabad first, after which it will replicated in other parts of the country.

With additional input from Radio Pakistan