Pakistan has received a much-needed financial lifeline from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Washington-based global lender has agreed to provide a $7 billion loan to the cash-strapped country over a 37-month period. This is Pakistan’s 23rd bailout package from the IMF since gaining independence in 1947.

The loan is expected to help stabilize Pakistan’s economy, which has been struggling with high inflation, a growing debt burden, and a dwindling foreign exchange reserve. The IMF has imposed conditions on the loan, requiring Pakistan to implement a series of economic reforms, including raising taxes, reducing subsidies, and privatizing state-owned enterprises.

While the Pakistani government has welcomed the IMF loan, critics argue that the country’s chronic economic problems are due to mismanagement, corruption, and repeated military rule. They contend that the IMF bailout is merely a temporary solution and that Pakistan needs to address its underlying structural issues to achieve sustainable economic growth.