Pakistan's Prime Minister and IMF Officials Close to $6 Billion Bailout Deal

Pakistan's prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicate that a deal for a $6 billion bailout package for Pakistan could be reached soon. Talks between Pakistan and the IMF stalled in December, but recent discussions and measures taken by Pakistani authorities have brought them closer to an agreement. The IMF's mission chief to Islamabad, Nathan Porter, stated that Pakistan has taken decisive measures to align its policies with the IMF-supported economic reform program. The cash-strapped Pakistani government is currently relying on financial assistance from China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to avoid default.