Pakistan will not receive free money; it must prove that it can reform

World Bank President Ajay Banga reprimands Pakistan

Islamabad (Pakistan) – The World Bank is willing to support Pakistan, but funds will be released only when tangible results are visible. Pakistan cannot continue to survive solely on loans and must improve its domestic environment to attract foreign direct investment, said World Bank President Ajay Banga, strongly admonishing Pakistan.

Banga further warned that corruption and tax evasion must be curbed, stating clearly that if Pakistan fails to implement reforms, no one will be willing to lend it money in the coming years. He is currently on a 4-day visit to Pakistan, during which he will also visit his ancestral village. His family migrated to India during Partition. Ajay Banga is an Indian national from Jalandhar.

The World Bank has planned to provide Pakistan with 20 billion US dollars (approximately ₹1.85 lakh crore) over the next 10 years. During his visit, Banga held discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Finance Minister Aurangzeb.

Advises Pakistan to learn from India; without naming it directly

Without explicitly naming India, Banga advised Pakistan to learn from a neighbouring country. He pointed out that digital payment systems and national identity-based databases in that country have significantly reduced tax evasion. He noted that the digital payment model adopted there is now being accepted globally, and suggested that Pakistan should attempt similar reforms.

We will give money; but results must be visible

Banga stated that Pakistan’s energy sector is in deep crisis. He made it clear that World Bank funds cannot be used to rescue institutions that fail to stop electricity theft. Pakistan must ensure proper bill collection and move toward subsidy-free pricing.

He also warned that if Pakistan does not upgrade its infrastructure to withstand climate-related challenges, access to future loans will become increasingly difficult.

Emphasizing the World Bank’s stance, Banga said:

“The World Bank is Pakistan’s partner, not its lender of last resort. Partnership means we will provide funds; but the impact of those funds must be clearly visible.”

Editorial Perspective

No matter how much money is given to beggar Pakistan, there is no doubt that it will be diverted toward jihadist terrorism, military expansion, and anti-India activities !