IMF FUNDING PAKISTAN
Even at half the price, is this Chinese jet proving costly for bankrupt Pakistan
China is reportedly offering Pakistan a 50% discount on 40 J-35A fighter jets amid economic challenges and a defense budget increase. This deal, featuring advanced weaponry and favorable payment terms, strengthens the China-Pakistan alliance. Pakistan seeks economic support and counters India's narrative while relying heavily on Chinese arms.
Pakistan's plan to sharply increase growth faces headwinds, analysts say
Pakistan has unveiled a $62.2 billion budget, aiming for 4.2% GDP growth, despite skepticism from analysts who cite ambitious revenue targets. Defence spending increased by 20% following clashes with India. The budget, under an IMF program, targets a reduced fiscal deficit of 3.9% of GDP through new taxes and privatization.
Pahalgam terror attack: Mamata Banerjee slams Centre for intel failure
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has criticized the central government for security failures related to the Pahalgam terror attack. She mentioned the opportunity to capture Pakistan occupied Kashmir. Banerjee also condemned the marketing of Operation Sindoor. The West Bengal assembly passed a resolution honoring the armed forces' actions against Pakistan. The resolution also condemned the Pahalgam attack.
Pakistan once again picks arms over 'aam aadmi'
Pakistan's new budget for fiscal year 2025-26 prioritizes defense with a 20% increase in spending, despite shrinking the overall budget by 7%. The nation, still recovering from an economic crisis and relying on loans, aims for 4.2% growth and reduced inflation while navigating IMF constraints and trade challenges. This allocation occurs amid regional growth outpacing Pakistan and ongoing economic vulnerabilities.
Despite soaring debt signal in Economic Survey, Pakistan defence budget may shoot
Pakistan's external debt has surged to $87.4 billion, compelling the nation to allocate over 1.9% of its GDP for debt servicing, with China as the primary lender. Despite this financial strain, Pakistan is anticipated to significantly increase its defense budget, even after a substantial rise last year, particularly after recent conflicts with India.
'India is loud at home but lonely abroad': Congress' Pawan Khera slams BJP govt's "muscular foreign policy"
Pawan Khera, a Congress leader, strongly criticizes the BJP government's foreign policy. He claims it has failed. Khera points to several issues. These include China's support for Pakistan and Nepal's territorial claims. He also mentions the OIC's stance on Jammu and Kashmir. Khera asserts India is isolated internationally. He says the government's approach has backfired.
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50% off J-35A fighter jets! China’s half-price stealth deal to Pakistan ignites online backlash, user says 'we pay the price'
China’s reported plan to deliver 30 J-35A stealth fighters to Pakistan at a 50% discount by August 2025 has set off a storm on Chinese social media. Citizens have criticised the move as reckless, citing Pakistan’s financial instability and unpaid defence bills. With the J-35 yet to enter Chinese service, many are questioning why Beijing is prioritising a “charity sale” to a cash-strapped neighbour.
Why RBI will hit a hattrick of 25 bps rate cut tomorrow
Despite global economic uncertainties, India's economy shows resilience with a 7.4% growth in Q4 FY25. The RBI, supported by benign inflation and moderate growth, is expected to cut the repo rate by 25 bps to 5.75% in June. This move aims to boost economic activity, encourage borrowing and investment, and foster job creation, marking the third consecutive rate cut.
How can global community allow continuous legitimisation of Pakistan sponsored terrorism?: Congress leader Pawan Khera
Congress leader Pawan Khera criticized the international community for legitimizing Pakistan's alleged support of terrorism, citing loans from IMF, World Bank, and ADB, alongside Pakistan's UNSC committee roles. He questioned the global community's actions and linked them to India's foreign policy challenges. Taranjit Singh Sandhu also raised concerns about Pakistan's credibility in chairing the UNSC committee, given its history.
Fund money is going to Pakistani Army, not being used for development of people: Asaduddin Owaisi
Asaduddin Owaisi, an AIMIM MP, stated that funds provided to Pakistan by Saudi Arabia and the IMF are being used by the Pakistani Army. He urged the Indian government to push for Pakistan's re-inclusion on the FATF grey list. Owaisi highlighted concerns about terrorism and refuted Pakistan's claim as a Muslim country.
India opposes ADB fund support to Pakistan
India has urged the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to limit financial aid to Pakistan, citing concerns about potential misuse of funds, particularly given Pakistan's increasing defense expenditures. India questions the effectiveness of multilateral bodies like the ADB and IMF in funding Pakistan, emphasizing the risk of resources being diverted to cross-border terrorism.
India vehemently opposed ADB's loan Pakistan as it could be misused: Govt sources
India has expressed strong opposition to the Asian Development Bank's decision to grant an USD 800 million loan to Pakistan. Indian government sources worry the funds could be diverted to increase military spending. India has raised concerns about Pakistan's economic management and the army's influence. They also highlighted the risks of cross-border terrorism and its impact on the region's security.
Is Trump's crypto policy opening doors for terror financing in Pakistan?
Pakistan is leveraging cryptocurrency to strengthen ties with Trump administration, amidst concerns over lax anti-money laundering enforcement and potential terror financing risks. Trump's crypto-friendly policies are opening doors for previously scrutinized figures, while Pakistan aims to align with US crypto regulations, potentially circumventing FATF and IMF scrutiny.
Talks with Pakistan are a 'bluff': MJ Akbar hits out at 'double-faced' Pakistan
During an address to the Indian diaspora in Copenhagen, MJ Akbar criticized Pakistan's double-faced nature and questioned the point of engaging in talks, deeming them a bluff. Ravi Shankar Prasad condemned anti-India slogans raised by Pakistani nationals, highlighting human rights violations in PoK and Balochistan. Priyanka Chaturvedi emphasized Indian unity against Pakistan and questioned the IMF's loan usage.
India may float paper on crypto assets norms in June
India is preparing to release a discussion paper on crypto assets, influenced by the IMF and FSB, amid growing global acceptance spurred by the US's evolving stance. This comes as the nation considers regulatory frameworks and stakeholder input, with no rush to judgment.
China assures Pak USD 3.7 billion loan to keep foreign exchange reserves in double digits
China has assured Pakistan it will re-lend USD 3.7 billion in Chinese currency before the end of June, bolstering Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves. This move is part of China's broader strategy to reduce reliance on the US dollar in international finance. The refinancing is crucial for Pakistan to maintain its reserves above USD 10 billion and meet IMF targets.
Pakistan can't keep turning economic rescue into strategic ransom
On 9 May 2025, the International Monetary Fund released a $1 billion tranche to Pakistan, marking its 25th financial support programme since 1958. India abstained from voting on the disbursement, citing concerns that the funds could indirectly support cross-border terrorism and military spending, without enforcing accountability.
IMF says next Pakistan funding review expected in second half of 2025
The IMF expects to review Pakistan's funding in H2 2025 and is in talks on the FY2026 budget. Inflation control and a 1.6% primary surplus remain key goals, Reuters reported citing an IMF statement.
India to push for Pakistan’s return to FATF grey list
India is set to advocate for Pakistan's re-inclusion in the FATF grey list, citing non-compliance with anti-money laundering and terror-financing regulations. New Delhi will also voice concerns to the World Bank regarding potential fund diversions, particularly towards arms procurement, when considering financial aid to Pakistan. This move follows heightened tensions and accusations of misused multilateral assistance.
India thanks IMF for imposing 11 conditions on Pakistan, but questions timing of bailout
India has expressed its appreciation for the IMF's additional conditions imposed on Pakistan, while also voicing concerns about the timing of the bailout package. India suggests the funds may be indirectly supporting Pakistan's increased defense spending, diverting resources from genuine developmental needs. The IMF has set 11 new conditions for Pakistan to receive the next tranche of financial aid.
Can India press Pakistan's key pain point again?
India aims to get Pakistan back on the FATF grey list. This follows Operation Sindoor and Pakistan's request for a ceasefire. Being on the grey list could hurt Pakistan's access to financial aid. India previously succeeded in placing Pakistan on the list in 2018. This was through strategic diplomacy and international cooperation.
India to push FATF to add Pakistan to grey list again, oppose World Bank funding amid rising tensions
India will urge the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global watchdog for financial crimes, to re-add arch-rival Pakistan to its "grey list," a senior government official in New Delhi said on Friday. Pakistan was removed from the grey list in 2022, a move that had improved its credibility with international lenders—crucial for the country's struggling economy.
IMF defends Pakistan bailout, says all targets were met
The IMF defended its recent bailout package to Pakistan, confirming that the country met all necessary targets for disbursement under the Extended Fund Facility program approved in September 2024. Following the completion of the review on May 9, the IMF board confirmed sufficient consensus to proceed with the review and disbursement.
IMF imposes 11 new conditions on Pakistan for its bailout programme, warns it against risks: Report
The IMF has imposed 11 new conditions on Pakistan for its bailout program, raising concerns about tensions with India impacting fiscal stability. These conditions include parliamentary approval of the budget, tax reforms, and energy sector adjustments. The IMF also requires Pakistan to phase out incentives for special technology zones and lift restrictions on used car imports.
Pakistan govt assures to rebuild Muridke's JuD headquarters destroyed in Indian strike
Pakistan pledged to rebuild the JuD headquarters mosques at Muridke, which India destroyed. PMML welcomed this step. India urged the IMF to reconsider its USD one billion aid to Pakistan, fearing it would fund terrorism. Rajnath Singh stated Pakistan is rebuilding terror infrastructure and will fund terrorists like Masood Azhar. Jamaat-e-Islami condemned the Indian attack on Muridke.
Modi govt 'buckled under US pressure' at IMF meeting on Pakistan loans: Congress
Following Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's criticism of IMF assistance to Pakistan, Congress accused the Modi government of succumbing to US pressure during the IMF Executive Board meeting. Jairam Ramesh highlighted India's abstention on the loan, contrasting it with past instances where India and Russia voted against similar proposals. Singh cautioned that IMF funds could indirectly support terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan.
India's action inside Pakistan just a trailer, if need be the world will see entire picture: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asserted that Operation Sindoor is ongoing, hinting at further actions against Pakistan if necessary. He accused Pakistan of rebuilding terror infrastructure and diverting funds, potentially including IMF assistance, to support terrorist organizations like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Singh emphasized India's commitment to eradicating terrorism, highlighting the IAF's capabilities to strike targets within Pakistan without crossing borders.
‘Din mein taare’: Rajnath Singh says even Pakistan has accepted the power of desi BrahMos missile
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his visit to Gujarat's Bhuj Air Force Station, hailed the impact of India's BrahMos missile, saying even Pakistan had acknowledged its power. Singh addressed air warriors following the success of Operation Sindoor and reiterated India's zero tolerance towards terrorism. He warned Pakistan against using IMF funds for terror and called for international scrutiny of its nuclear weapons. Singh also paid tribute to the fallen and reaffirmed India's firm resolve in the face of cross-border threats.
'Zara sambhal ke chalo, tum nashe mein ho': Rajnath Singh quotes Bashir Badr to warn Pakistan, watch video
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has put Pakistan on notice, asserting that India is closely monitoring its actions amid ongoing military operations like Operation Sindoor. He voiced concerns about the potential misuse of IMF funds for terror infrastructure and questioned the safety of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, advocating for international oversight.
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