Department of Economics, University of Karachi in collaboration with Applied Economics Research Centre (AERC) hosted International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Resident Represented, Ms. Esther Perez Ruiz, on 8th December, 2022 at AERC auditorium. Vice Chancellor University of Karachi, Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Professor Dr. Abdul Waheed, Registrar, University of Karachi and Dr. Nusrat Idrees, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences were also present in the session.In her introductory remarks, Dr. Nooreen Mujhaid, Chairperson Department of Economics, shed light on the grave socio-economic conditions amid global inflation and external debts. Ms. Esther Perez highlighted the Economic Outlook of Middle East, North America and Pakistan. She highlighted the resilient economic recovery but higher inflation and tighter fiscal conditions forces countries to a tighter monetary policy. She added that IMF is concerned about sustainability of the low income economies. In response to a question related to academia policies she informed the audience about the internship program offered at headquarters of IMF. Honorable VC, Prof. Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, stressed that we cannot ignore the three important headwinds the global financial tightening, war in Ukraine and sharp slowdown in China. It has its spillover on the overall global economic outlook. Highlighted the role of IMF and commended the support it offers to Pakistan. He also suggested the need of collaborative solutions by active dialogue among IMF, policy makers and other stakeholders. Dr. Zeeshan Atiq, Assistant Professor, Department of Economics in his concluding remarks emphasized the importance of collaboration among academia and policy makers. He ended the session by thanking Ms. Esther and all other esteemed participants. In the end she shared her invaluable insights with faculty members and discussed different collaborative opportunities.
