In the past, Pakistan weathered the storm thanks to generous help by our friends. After the 1998 nuclear explosions, Saudi Arabia quietly continued to supply oil on deferred payment. That is why now negotiating with the IMF is becoming far more challenging since the Washington-based lender is operating in tandem with Pakistan’s friends. But the key part of that statement was that Saudi Arabia would “study” — meaning these funds would not be without any conditions. The message from lenders to our friends is loud and clear —let Pakistan put their house in order or face the consequences!

Source: The Express Tribune January 24, 2023 04:03 UTC