WION’s Pak Bureau Chief Anas Mallick had an interaction with Pakistan’s former poverty alleviation minister Dr. Sania Nishtar. She spoke on the former government's flood relief initiative along with the current financial crisis in Pakistan. Watch this video.

Pakistan’s former Poverty Alleviation Minister Dr. Sania Nishtar speaks to WION’s Anas Mallick

WION’s Anas Mallick had an interaction with Pakistan’s former poverty alleviation minister Dr. Sania Nishtar. She spoke on the former government's flood relief initiative along with the current financial crisis in Pakistan. Watch this video.

Pakistan’s former poverty alleviation minister Dr. Sania Nishtar speaks to WION’s Anas Mallick

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidt4NBNPCgK3Dh" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Pakistan is going through severe economic hardship. The economic crisis has translated into a food crisis with 'flour' - a staple part of most diets facing an extreme shortage in supply. The repercussions have been dire as people are fighting, often resorting to violence to gain hold of a few mounds of the prized commodity.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Videos of Pakistani residents from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan battling to acquire bags of flour have now gone viral on social media platforms. The three provinces have been facing acute food shortages ever since last year's deadly flood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The people in the video can be seen snatching the flour bag from each other while engaging in a violent tussle. Meanwhile, in other clips, the residents can be seen chasing the truck supplying the subsidised flour.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanFlourCrisis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanFlourCrisis</a>, Visual from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sindh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sindh</a> Pakistan, people were seen squabbling for flour.<br />
<br />
It's Painful💔💔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanEconomy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanEconomy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ResilientPakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ResilientPakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/7qlSjh3rni">pic.twitter.com/7qlSjh3rni</a></p>
— Bakhtawar Shah (@Shah_Bakhtawar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shah_Bakhtawar1/status/1612686353271070722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">“आटा ख़त्म…Gate बंद…”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanEconomy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanEconomy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/jgitifBIZR">pic.twitter.com/jgitifBIZR</a></p>
— Jyot Jeet (@activistjyot) <a href="https://twitter.com/activistjyot/status/1612675931268845568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Local media reports state that thousands of people have to spend hours daily to receive the subsidised bag of flour.</p>

<p>Flour prices have touched an exorbitant high amid the crunch. In Karachi, flour is being sold at Rs 160 per kilogramme. Meanwhile, a bag of flour can easily fetch as much as Rs 1500 to 1600 per kg in Islamabad and Peshawar.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;</strong></a><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882">Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Such is the state of the economy that Islamabad is unable to provide basic amenities to a common Pakistani citizen.</p>

<p>Notably, people are being forced to store LPG (cooking gas) in plastic balloons and bags as the government fails to address the shortage in supply.</p>

<p>In the videos that have gone viral on different social media platforms, citizens in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province can be seen storing cooking gas in plastic bags due to shortage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-people-in-pakistan-store-cooking-gas-in-plastic-bags-amid-economic-crisis-549060" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | People in Pakistan store cooking gas in plastic bags amid economic crisis</strong></a></p>

<p>To arrest the slide,<b>&nbsp;</b>the Pakistani government has proposed to close markets and wedding halls by 8:30 PM and 10 PM respectively to keep the rising debt in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The radical changes by the government also include&nbsp;a plan to halt the production of fans and incandescent bulbs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-close-wedding-halls-malls-early-stop-production-of-bulbs-fans-to-save-money-549205" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Pakistan to close wedding halls, malls early; stop production of bulbs, fans to save money</strong></a></p>

<p>Pakistan's fiscal deficit stood at 1.5 per cent of GDP from July-October 2022-23. The country's foreign&nbsp;exchange reserves plummeted to its lowest since April 2014 last month when it shrank by $294 million to $5.8 billion, primarily due to external debt repayment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Pakistan is going through severe economic hardship. The economic crisis has translated into a food crisis with 'flour' - a staple part of most diets facing an extreme shortage in supply.

Pakistan is going through severe economic hardship. The economic crisis has translated into a food crisis with 'flour' - a staple part of most diets facing an extreme shortage in supply. The repercussions have been dire as people are fighting, often resorting to violence to gain hold of a few mounds of the prized commodity. Videos of Pakistani residents from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan battling to acquire bags of flour have now gone viral on social media platforms. The three provinces have been facing acute food shortages ever since last year's deadly flood. The people in the video can be seen snatching the flour bag from each other while engaging in a violent tussle. Meanwhile, in other clips, the residents can be seen chasing the truck supplying the subsidised flour. #PakistanFlourCrisis, Visual from #Sindh Pakistan, people were seen squabbling for flour. It's Painful💔💔#PakistanEconomy #ResilientPakistan pic.twitter.com/7qlSjh3rni — Bakhtawar Shah (@Shah_Bakhtawar1) January 10, 2023 × “आटा ख़त्म…Gate बंद…” #PakistanEconomy #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/jgitifBIZR — Jyot Jeet (@activistjyot) January 10, 2023 × Local media reports state that thousands of people have to spend hours daily to receive the subsidised bag of flour. Flour prices have touched an exorbitant high amid the crunch. In Karachi, flour is being sold at Rs 160 per kilogramme. Meanwhile, a bag of flour can easily fetch as much as Rs 1500 to 1600 per kg in Islamabad and Peshawar. WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? × Such is the state of the economy that Islamabad is unable to provide basic amenities to a common Pakistani citizen. Notably, people are being forced to store LPG (cooking gas) in plastic balloons and bags as the government fails to address the shortage in supply. In the videos that have gone viral on different social media platforms, citizens in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province can be seen storing cooking gas in plastic bags due to shortage. WATCH | People in Pakistan store cooking gas in plastic bags amid economic crisis To arrest the slide, the Pakistani government has proposed to close markets and wedding halls by 8:30 PM and 10 PM respectively to keep the rising debt in check. The radical changes by the government also include a plan to halt the production of fans and incandescent bulbs. Read more: Pakistan to close wedding halls, malls early; stop production of bulbs, fans to save money Pakistan's fiscal deficit stood at 1.5 per cent of GDP from July-October 2022-23. The country's foreign exchange reserves plummeted to its lowest since April 2014 last month when it shrank by $294 million to $5.8 billion, primarily due to external debt repayment. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Pakistani citizens fight for flour as prices touch record high amid shortage

<p>The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan on Tuesday condemned Shahbaz Sharif-led Pakistan Muslim League (PML) for its "irresponsible statements" against the Taliban and warned of&nbsp;deteriorating Afghan ties&nbsp;if the Taliban stops cooperating with Pakistan. It can lead to a "never-ending" war against terrorism, Khan said.</p>

<p>The comments come following a seminar on terrorism&nbsp;attended by Khan, where he spoke about the criticism levelled at the Pakistan&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Insaf&nbsp;for its peace talks with TTP.</p>

<p>During the seminar, Khan also stated that they have informed all stakeholders about the need for talks with TTP members and their plan to resettle their members, ANI reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-with-pm-abroad-pakistanis-struggle-to-put-food-on-table-economy-on-track-551157">Explained: With PM abroad, Pakistanis struggle to put food on table, economy on track</a></strong></p>

<p>The PTI chairperson also slammed Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah for his "irresponsible" statements, where he proclaimed that Pakistan might target TTP hideouts on Afghanistan soil.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;TTP: Held talks with Pakistan mediated by Afghanistan, still open to the ceasefire agreement</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ttp-held-talks-with-pakistan-mediated-by-afghanistan-still-open-to-the-ceasefire-agreement-550522/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Slamming the Sharif-led government, Khan also questioned why the Prime Minister&nbsp;did not raise any issues on the recent incidents at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border.</p>

<p>He also stressed that Pakistan should not seek help from the United States and warned&nbsp;it can cause internal discord among locals if any drone attacks were to be conducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-ec-summons-former-pm-imran-khan-for-explanation-on-pti-chairmanship-550243">Pakistan EC summons former PM Imran Khan for explanation on PTI chairmanship</a></strong></p>

<p>A course ceasefire between the TTP and Pakistan ended in November 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan has been witnessing an increase in terror attacks across the country. In mid-December, a clash erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan after a troop opened "indiscriminate firing" that resulted in the death of one, injuring 12.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan on Tuesday condemned Shahbaz Sharif-led Pakistan Muslim League (PML) for its "irresponsible statements" against the Taliban and warned of deteriorating Afghan ties if the Taliban stops cooperating with Pakistan.

The former prime minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan on Tuesday condemned Shahbaz Sharif-led Pakistan Muslim League (PML) for its "irresponsible statements" against the Taliban and warned of deteriorating Afghan ties if the Taliban stops cooperating with Pakistan. It can lead to a "never-ending" war against terrorism, Khan said. The comments come following a seminar on terrorism attended by Khan, where he spoke about the criticism levelled at the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf for its peace talks with TTP. During the seminar, Khan also stated that they have informed all stakeholders about the need for talks with TTP members and their plan to resettle their members, ANI reported. Also read | Explained: With PM abroad, Pakistanis struggle to put food on table, economy on track The PTI chairperson also slammed Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah for his "irresponsible" statements, where he proclaimed that Pakistan might target TTP hideouts on Afghanistan soil. Watch | TTP: Held talks with Pakistan mediated by Afghanistan, still open to the ceasefire agreement Slamming the Sharif-led government, Khan also questioned why the Prime Minister did not raise any issues on the recent incidents at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. He also stressed that Pakistan should not seek help from the United States and warned it can cause internal discord among locals if any drone attacks were to be conducted. Also read | Pakistan EC summons former PM Imran Khan for explanation on PTI chairmanship A course ceasefire between the TTP and Pakistan ended in November 2022. Pakistan has been witnessing an increase in terror attacks across the country. In mid-December, a clash erupted between Pakistan and Afghanistan after a troop opened "indiscriminate firing" that resulted in the death of one, injuring 12. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Former Pak PM Imran Khan condemns Sharif-led govt for its 'irresponsible statements' on Taliban

A big sigh of relief to Pakistan as international donors have committed to providing over $9 billion worth of funds to help Pakistan recover from its historic floods. Officials from over 40 countries, private donors and international institutions pledge funds for Pakistan.

Leaders from over 40 countries and institutions pledge funds for Pakistan

Amid the depleting foreign reserves in the country, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to the UAE on is delayed. Motive behind this visit is to seek an emergency cash deposit from its west Asian partner.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to UAE delayed

According to the reports, Pakistan's weekly inflation witnesses 30 percent rise compared to last year amid a rise in the prices of food and a couple of fuel items. Now, the question is will 2023 bring some relief for Pakistan?

Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?

International donors on Monday committed over $9 billion to help Pakistan recover from ruinous floods last year, exceeding its external financing goals and paving the way for a new model on raising funds to fight climate disasters in poorer countries.

Donors pledge more than $9 billion for Pakistan after devastating floods

<p>The food crisis in Pakistan, India's northwestern neighbour, reached unprecedented proportions this week. With visuals of stampede at wheat flour shops in different parts of the country dominating the South Asian news cycle, years of economic mismanagement by Islamabad have come to haunt its current rulers.&nbsp;While the Pakistani economy was declining for quite some time, the floods of 2022 caused unprecedented damage to the country with critical infrastructure destroyed and millions displaced.</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan food crisis: How bad is it?</strong></p>

<p>Prices of staple food items have increased by nearly 56 per cent. According to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), Onion prices have risen by more than 415 per cent since last year.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882">Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse?</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-pakistans-economic-crisis-getting-worse-550882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The wheat flour, a necessary food item for preparation of various types of breads, is reportedly being sold at prices as high as Rs 140-160/kg in the port city of Karachi. It is also reported that a single roti currently costs Rs 30.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to reports in local Pakistani media, in several other parts of the country, a 10 kg bag of flour is costing people around Rs 1,500 and a 20 kg bag at Rs 2,800.</p>

<p>At present, Pakistan is on the verge of economic collapse. Its hopes are pinned on getting concessions from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the Extended Fund Facility established in 2019. Islamabad further expects to get economic help from friendly nations in the form of donations and long-term loans.</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan economic crisis: Poor foreign reserves, loan repayment deadlines</strong></p>

<p>A report in Pakistan's 'The Frontier Post' newspaper cited The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce (FPCCI), saying that the country's foreign exchange reserves have fallen to a critical level of $4.5 billion. In the first quarter of 2023, the country has loan repayment obligations of more than $8 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-faces-grim-economic-forecast-amid-loan-pay-back-deadlines-548297">Pakistan faces grim economic forecast amid loan pay back deadlines</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan will reportedly be left with just 25 days of import cover if it stands by its loan repayment commitments.</p>

<p>Reports in Pakistani media point out that since Islamabad's change of guard from Imran Khan to Shehbaz Sharif, the corresponding political turmoil too has contributed to the country's economic decline.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Throughout the year, the political elite failed to agree to play by any rules of the game amid the falling economic health of the country, reported The Express Tribune.</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan economic crisis: What country's rulers are doing?</strong></p>

<p>Pakistani leaders are doing what they are known to do at the moments of crisis: visiting foreign nations, asking for help by using 'aid' and 'assistance' adjectives. Country's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently in Geneva. On January 9, Sharif asked the International Conference on Climate Resilience to aid the country, citing the damage caused by 2022 floods.&nbsp;On the sidelines, Pakistani representatives met IMF officials regarding its currently stalled Extended Fund Facility.</p>

<p>In the face of the ongoing financial crisis, the Pakistani government has come up with measures to save energy and reduce its energy bill. Markets and restaurants will close at 8:30 PM and 10 PM in a bid to save energy. This January 3 decision, intended to save about $274 million, has drawn flak from both market associations as well as general masses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


The food crisis in Pakistan, India's northwestern neighbour, reached unprecedented proportions this week. With visuals of stampede at wheat flour shops in different parts of the country dominating the South Asian news cycle, years of economic mismanagement by Islamabad have come to haunt its current rulers.

The food crisis in Pakistan, India's northwestern neighbour, reached unprecedented proportions this week. With visuals of stampede at wheat flour shops in different parts of the country dominating the South Asian news cycle, years of economic mismanagement by Islamabad have come to haunt its current rulers. While the Pakistani economy was declining for quite some time, the floods of 2022 caused unprecedented damage to the country with critical infrastructure destroyed and millions displaced. Pakistan food crisis: How bad is it? Prices of staple food items have increased by nearly 56 per cent. According to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), Onion prices have risen by more than 415 per cent since last year. ALSO WATCH | Is Pakistan's economic crisis getting worse? × The wheat flour, a necessary food item for preparation of various types of breads, is reportedly being sold at prices as high as Rs 140-160/kg in the port city of Karachi. It is also reported that a single roti currently costs Rs 30. According to reports in local Pakistani media, in several other parts of the country, a 10 kg bag of flour is costing people around Rs 1,500 and a 20 kg bag at Rs 2,800. At present, Pakistan is on the verge of economic collapse. Its hopes are pinned on getting concessions from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the Extended Fund Facility established in 2019. Islamabad further expects to get economic help from friendly nations in the form of donations and long-term loans. Pakistan economic crisis: Poor foreign reserves, loan repayment deadlines A report in Pakistan's 'The Frontier Post' newspaper cited The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce (FPCCI), saying that the country's foreign exchange reserves have fallen to a critical level of $4.5 billion. In the first quarter of 2023, the country has loan repayment obligations of more than $8 billion. ALSO READ | Pakistan faces grim economic forecast amid loan pay back deadlines Pakistan will reportedly be left with just 25 days of import cover if it stands by its loan repayment commitments. Reports in Pakistani media point out that since Islamabad's change of guard from Imran Khan to Shehbaz Sharif, the corresponding political turmoil too has contributed to the country's economic decline. Throughout the year, the political elite failed to agree to play by any rules of the game amid the falling economic health of the country, reported The Express Tribune. Pakistan economic crisis: What country's rulers are doing? Pakistani leaders are doing what they are known to do at the moments of crisis: visiting foreign nations, asking for help by using 'aid' and 'assistance' adjectives. Country's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently in Geneva. On January 9, Sharif asked the International Conference on Climate Resilience to aid the country, citing the damage caused by 2022 floods. On the sidelines, Pakistani representatives met IMF officials regarding its currently stalled Extended Fund Facility. In the face of the ongoing financial crisis, the Pakistani government has come up with measures to save energy and reduce its energy bill. Markets and restaurants will close at 8:30 PM and 10 PM in a bid to save energy. This January 3 decision, intended to save about $274 million, has drawn flak from both market associations as well as general masses. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: With PM abroad, Pakistanis struggle to put food on table, economy on track

Pakistan is running out of money, food, fuel, and it is heading the Sri Lanka way. Onion prices have reportedly gone up over 500%, wheat flour has become unaffordable. Pakistan wants its people to brace for blackouts. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Pakistan is running out of money, food, fuel

Pakistan is hosting an international conference in Geneva with the help of the United Nations to generate international support for a $16 billion rebuilding effort in the country following last year's devastating floods.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan seeks global community's aid for rehabilitation of flood victims

The Balochistan government has sent a SOS but no wheat consignment has reached the Pakistani province so far to solve the shortage. Watch to know more.

WION Climate Tracker: Pakistan's Balochintan runs out of wheat

WION Climate Tracker: UN and Pakistan co-host conference to raise funds

The head of the United Nations Development Agency has appealed for urgent aid to Pakistan as the country still heals from damages caused by last year's flood. UN official urges the world to boost climate resilience.

UN official urges International Community to help flood-hit Pakistan

<p>While attending a conference in Geneva commencing Monday, a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will meet with Pakistan's finance minister Ishaq Dar as that country battles to restart its bailout programme.</p>

<p>Cash-strapped Pakistan is in dire need of aid and only has enough foreign exchange reserves to cover one month's worth of imports as IMF didn’t authorise the release of $1.1 billion that was originally scheduled to be paid out in November of last year, Al Jazeera reported.</p>

<p>“The IMF delegation is expected to meet with finance minister Dar on the sidelines of the Geneva conference to discuss outstanding issues and the path forward,” an IMF spokesperson told Reuters on Sunday.</p>

<p>According to IMF spokesperson, the institution’s Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva had a “constructive call” with Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Friday. “The MD again expressed her sympathy to those directly affected by the floods and supported Pakistan’s efforts to build a more resilient recovery,” the spokesperson told Dawn.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionnews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-shehbaz-sharif-holds-talks-with-imf-chief-amid-economic-crisis-550170" hreflang="en">Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif holds talks with IMF chief amid economic crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>The goal of the International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan in Geneva, which is being co-hosted by Sharif and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, is to rally support for the nation in the wake of last year's disastrous floods on a global scale.</p>

<p>In recent months, Dar has criticised the IMF, openly stating that the institution was behaving "abnormally" in its interactions with Pakistan, which, in 2019, entered the $7 billion bailout programme.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan floods: 33 million people affected</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/gravitas-pakistan-floods-affect-33-million-people-511609/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>IMF declined to grant the next installment of the already-agreed credit since Pakistan was not keeping its end of the bargain when the halted loan of $6 billion was reinstated last year.</p>

<p>More than six months of flooding, driven by global warming, has left some districts of Pakistan devastated and the fundamental necessities of the locals are still unmet. At least 1,700 people were killed by the floods, and vital infrastructure suffered billion-dollar losses, as per Al Jazeera.</p>

<p>According to a UN report published in December, 8 million people were "possibly exposed to floodwaters or living close to flooded areas," while 240,000 people in Sindh, a province in southern Pakistan, remain homeless.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


While attending a conference in Geneva commencing Monday, a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will meet with Pakistan's finance minister Ishaq Dar as that country battles to restart its bailout programme.

While attending a conference in Geneva commencing Monday, a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will meet with Pakistan's finance minister Ishaq Dar as that country battles to restart its bailout programme. Cash-strapped Pakistan is in dire need of aid and only has enough foreign exchange reserves to cover one month's worth of imports as IMF didn’t authorise the release of $1.1 billion that was originally scheduled to be paid out in November of last year, Al Jazeera reported. “The IMF delegation is expected to meet with finance minister Dar on the sidelines of the Geneva conference to discuss outstanding issues and the path forward,” an IMF spokesperson told Reuters on Sunday. According to IMF spokesperson, the institution’s Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva had a “constructive call” with Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Friday. “The MD again expressed her sympathy to those directly affected by the floods and supported Pakistan’s efforts to build a more resilient recovery,” the spokesperson told Dawn. Also Read | Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif holds talks with IMF chief amid economic crisis The goal of the International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan in Geneva, which is being co-hosted by Sharif and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, is to rally support for the nation in the wake of last year's disastrous floods on a global scale. In recent months, Dar has criticised the IMF, openly stating that the institution was behaving "abnormally" in its interactions with Pakistan, which, in 2019, entered the $7 billion bailout programme. Watch | Pakistan floods: 33 million people affected IMF declined to grant the next installment of the already-agreed credit since Pakistan was not keeping its end of the bargain when the halted loan of $6 billion was reinstated last year. More than six months of flooding, driven by global warming, has left some districts of Pakistan devastated and the fundamental necessities of the locals are still unmet. At least 1,700 people were killed by the floods, and vital infrastructure suffered billion-dollar losses, as per Al Jazeera. According to a UN report published in December, 8 million people were "possibly exposed to floodwaters or living close to flooded areas," while 240,000 people in Sindh, a province in southern Pakistan, remain homeless. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistan to press IMF for release of bailout funds amid worsening economic crisis, floods

An array of hope for Pakistan that is currently reeling under surging terror attacks mostly carried out by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan after a series of attacks. The TTP leaders have now indicated that they are willing to hold talks.

TTP: Held talks with Pakistan mediated by Afghanistan, still open to the ceasefire agreement

If only you had a dime for every time US picked Pakistan as a friend and then dropped it again. US and Pakistan have had a rather bouncy past, one riddled with blame-games as well as mutual agreements. But when US agrees or blesses Pakistan with aid, its always for a larger cause. Now, US is sympathizing with Pakistan yet again but why? Watch Game Plan with Shivan Chanana.

How US treats Pakistan as a ping-pong ball

On Inside South Asia with Neha Khanna: - Pakistan's Terror Troubles: Frankenstein Monster out of control? - Hollow Promises, Medieval & Misogynistic Rules: Taliban 2.0 - As Nepal slips into China's Embrace, Does it need to learn from Sri Lanka? - Bikini Killer's Flight To Paris: Fellow Passenger not amused

Inside South Asia | Pakistan's Terror Troubles: Frankenstein Monster out of control?

<p>Officials said on Thursday (January 5) that Pakistan might seek over $16 billion at a UN conference next week for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the flood-hit regions. The catastrophic floods reportedly caused the country a loss of about $30 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A United Nations report published on Wednesday highlighted that in 2022, the Asia-Pacific was the world's most disaster-prone region with floods, drought, typhoons, heatwaves, and earthquakes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that floods were the deadliest, accounting for 74.4 per cent of disaster events in the region and 88.4 per cent of total deaths globally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When it comes to floods, last year's flood in Pakistan and its impact on the residents is notable. Reports stated that the Pakistan flood affected 33 million people and caused 1,739 deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The World Weather Attribution study, which was released last year on September 15, showed "fingerprints" of climate change on this extreme monsoon rainfall in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the unversed, the "International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan" is being held in Geneva on January 9. It is co-hosted by the Government of Pakistan and the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Foreign Office spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the conference aims to seek funding for the flood victims. Baloch further mentioned that the Conference will be co-chaired by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At her weekly media briefing, she said: "The programme will feature a high-level opening segment, where leaders will make supportive statements."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Officials said on Thursday (January 5) that Pakistan might seek over $16 billion at a UN conference next week for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the flood-hit regions.

Officials said on Thursday (January 5) that Pakistan might seek over $16 billion at a UN conference next week for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the flood-hit regions. The catastrophic floods reportedly caused the country a loss of about $30 billion. A United Nations report published on Wednesday highlighted that in 2022, the Asia-Pacific was the world's most disaster-prone region with floods, drought, typhoons, heatwaves, and earthquakes. The report mentioned that floods were the deadliest, accounting for 74.4 per cent of disaster events in the region and 88.4 per cent of total deaths globally. When it comes to floods, last year's flood in Pakistan and its impact on the residents is notable. Reports stated that the Pakistan flood affected 33 million people and caused 1,739 deaths. The World Weather Attribution study, which was released last year on September 15, showed "fingerprints" of climate change on this extreme monsoon rainfall in Pakistan. For the unversed, the "International Conference on Climate Resilient Pakistan" is being held in Geneva on January 9. It is co-hosted by the Government of Pakistan and the United Nations. According to Foreign Office spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the conference aims to seek funding for the flood victims. Baloch further mentioned that the Conference will be co-chaired by Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. At her weekly media briefing, she said: "The programme will feature a high-level opening segment, where leaders will make supportive statements." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan to seek over $16 billion at UN conference for rehabilitation after last year's flood

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has admitted that inflation has reached a new peak in the country. Earlier, government has announced closure of markets, malls and wedding halls with a view to conserving energy. Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan hit hard by inflation

Tensions are rising between India and Pakistan cricketing establishments, Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Najam Aziz Sethi has taken a sarcastic jibe at the Indian Cricket Board secretary Jay Shah claiming that he unilaterally announced the Asian Cricket Council's two-year calendar.

Cricket boards at war: Row over Asia Cup intensifies, BCCI and PCB on collision course again

Pakistan has denied conducting airstrikes in Afghanistan. There were reports earlier suggesting that the Pakistani Air Force had struck Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) bases in Afghanistan.

Pakistan denies conducting airstrikes on TTP bases in Afghanistan

Pakistani authorities on Wednesday ordered shopping malls and markets to close by 8.30 pm as part of a new energy conservation plan aimed at easing country's economic crisis.

Pakistan orders malls, markets to close early amid economic crisis

Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway. This comes after Sanaullah on Wednesday had said that Pakistan won’t hold talks with the banned TTP or any other terrorist organisation.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan interior minister Rana Sanaullah says 'efforts on to hold talks with TTP'

Pakistani traders have rejected government’s decision to shut malls and markets by 8:30 pm. This decision came after a new energy conservation plan and called for the revocation. Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch: Karachi malls and restaurants stay open despite Government order

Islamabad says it has the right to defend itself. Will this doctrine boomerang? Priyanka Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Pakistan is heading for a civil war

Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has assured the people that the government is working actively to counter terrorism in the country. The assurance comes at a time when Pakistan is witnessing a heightened security crisis amid constant attacks from the terror group TTP.

Pakistan's Interior minister Rana Sanaullah speaks on security situation

The Interior Minister of Pakistan Rana Sanaullah assures citizens of working to tackle terrorism on the rise in the country. Speaking in Press Conference on Wednesday Sanaulaah said that they are 'Open to negotiating with Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan' if the terror group surrenders to the constitution.

Pakistan faces security crisis, Interior Minister says 'Open to negotiating with TTP'

As Pakistan grapples with a crippling power and economic crisis, the Shehbaz Sharif government announces a series of measures to cut the energy cost and decrease dependence on imported oil. Pakistan PM asks government departments to reduce energy consumption by 30%.

Pakistan government announces National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan

At least two officials of counter-terrorism department were killed after getting attacked at a local hotel in Punjab. According to the reports, Pakistan police officials called this incident 'an act of terror', while giving details about the incident, the police said the attackers were on a motorcycle when they fired across the parking lot of a hotel.

Pakistan: Two counter-terror officials killed, Interior Minister expresses concern

Pakistan Taliban has threatened the ruling parties of the country as Shehbaz Sharif government mulls a military operation against the terrorist group.

Pakistani Taliban threatens to target top leaders of PML-N & PPP

pakistan-0

Pakistan, News on Pakistan, stories on Pakistan, articles on Pakistan, Pakistan stories at Wion, Pakistan news, Pakistan latest news

pakistan 0