Imran urges world to consider writing off loans to help cope with coronavirus

He says the virus may have a devastating impact on the economy of developing countries such as Pakistan

In the wake of the novel coronavirus, Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday requested the international community to consider writing off loans to developing countries such as Pakistan to help them deal with the crisis.

In an exclusive interview to Associated Press, the premier expressed concern over the devastating impact the virus may have on economies of developing countries.

The premier said if a serious outbreak happens in the country, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government’s efforts to lift the economy out of collapse would begin “an unstoppable slide backwards”.

“Exports would fall off, unemployment would soar and an onerous national debt would become an impossible burden,” the premier added.

The prime minister maintained that Pakistan does not have the capability and resources to deal with the novel coronavirus.

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He further directed lifting sanctions against Iran and lauded the country’s humanitarian imperative to contain the outbreak by pushing aside political rivalries.

PM Imran expressed disappointment over recent comments made by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani about Pakistan.

He said since the start of his tenure, he has worked hard with the US to help establish a peace deal in Afghanistan.

“Pakistan should be appreciated for furthering the peace process,” he added.

Referring to the riots and massacre of Muslims in New Delhi, the premier said Indian Prime Minister Modi’s government threatens to suppress millions of Muslims through the controversial anti-Muslim law.

The premier reiterated concern over the situation in the region and said it is the world’s worst nightmare that a racial party has taken over a nuclear-armed country with more than one billion people.