IMF and Pakistan to Discuss Potential New Bailout Program As Current Deal Nears End

• IMF ready to engage with Pakistan on a new bailout program in coming months to help resolve fiscal and external challenges • IMF Executive Board to meet later this month to approve disbursement of remaining $1.1 billion from current program • IMF acknowledges Pakistan's strong program implementation and economic/financial improvements • Pakistan signaling new 3-year IMF program likely needed beyond current program • Pakistan finance minister says meeting planned with IMF in April to discuss features of potential new program