ISLAMABAD: State Bank of Pakistan Governor Dr Reza Baqir Monday responded to criticism directed at him by the Opposition parties for his previous affiliation with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), asking, “Is it a crime to work for an international organization?”
Briefing the Senate’s Standing Committee on Finance, Reza Baqir said he had worked with the international lender, adding previously several SBP chief had also worked for the IMF and other international institutions.
“Is it a crime to work for an international organization?” he asked.
“I have no other nationality, I am a Pakistani, I do not have permanent residence in any other country.”
He further said that fake news are spread on media and social media on these issues.
Reza Baqir, a former IMF employee, often comes under criticism by the Opposition parties and recently due to strict conditions set by the Washington-based lender for the revival of $6 billion loan programme.
While briefing the senators, Dr Raza Baqir said now the draft has come out and everyone can see that all the powers are with the government.
“It is wrong to give the impression that the IMF is being made the owner of the SBP,” he said, adding earlier fake news was spread that the government has sold the central bank to the IMF.
Inflation figures beat market as well as government forecasts of around 6.8%, but remain in single-digits
FBR spokesperson says deadline to file income tax return will not be extended, after it expired on Oct 31
High-speed diesel increased to Rs255.14 per litre; new prices come into effect
Govt had set minimum expected price for PIA at Rs85 billion, says privatisation ministry
Analysts say market is taking a breather and such corrections are expected to follow extended rallies
PM Shehbaz's govt is looking to offload a 51-100% stake in debt-ridden airline to raise funds
