Ascertained direction of Pakistan’s economy in 100 days: Finance Minister

Finance Minister Asad Umer on Thursday said that the government has ascertained direction of country’s economy in first 100 days of the government. Manifesto of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf will be completed at all cost.

Addressing a ceremony regarding completion of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) first 100 days in government at the Convention Centre today, he said that all institutions were facing deficit when PTI came into power.

The minister said that PM Imran won the toss and opted to bat first in difficult situation and I was sent in to open bat when the ball was swinging.

“Pakistan’s budget deficit was Rs230 billion when PTI came into power which has already been reduced by Rs130 billion,” he added.

The minister went on to say that the government wont hide behind the IMF, adding that the agreement with IMF will be signed considering national interests.

Finance minister said that the government would take U-turn for the betterment of the nation.

Umer said: “Country’s economy has been given direction during the first 100 days of the government.”

The minister revealed that it was upon his advice that the PM reneged on his promise to not travel abroad in the first 100 days.

Pakistan will sign agreement with IMF while keeping national interest on top besides exploring alternate options for economic relief, he asserted.

Providing the economic performance in PTI’s 100 days, Asad Umar said, “Monthly deficit of $2 billion is reduced to $1 billion.”

The minister added government will increase the existing 1,73,000 Small Industries to 7,00,000 in coming 4 years, while the existing loan of Rs 425 Billion for the industries will be increased to 2500 Billion Rupees.