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IMF Defends $1 Billion Pakistan Bailout Amid India's Terror Funding Concerns

The IMF asserts Pakistan met all conditions for the disbursement, while India plans to challenge external financing at the World Bank and FATF.

Countries in the FATF grey list are given an action plan, and their implementation of this is monitored every four months (REUTERS FILE)
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Overview

  • The IMF approved a $1 billion disbursement to Pakistan on May 9, 2025, citing compliance with Extended Fund Facility (EFF) targets and progress on reforms.
  • India has formally protested the bailout, labeling it indirect support for terrorism, and plans to lobby the World Bank and FATF to limit Pakistan's access to external financing.
  • The IMF imposed 11 new conditions for future tranches, including parliamentary budget approval, increased electricity surcharges, and a long-term financial strategy post-2027.
  • The IMF emphasized safeguards to prevent misuse of funds, stating that disbursements are allocated to Pakistan's central bank reserves, not its government budget.
  • India has raised concerns over Pakistan's defense spending, citing data showing increased arms imports during years with IMF funding, and has called for Pakistan's return to the FATF grey list.