The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) said on April 13 that it had repaid a $1 billion international bond issue.

This comes as the country seeks to secure long-term financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during its spring meetings, which are currently underway.

An IMF spokesperson said last week the fund recognises the new government’s “reform efforts to move Pakistan from stabilisation to a strong and sustainable recovery”.  She added: “We stand ready to engage in programme