Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Tuesday stated that Pakistan may not need financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) within six months, citing a surge in defence procurement orders.
Speaking on Geo News’ “Capital Talk,” he highlighted Pakistan’s military effectiveness during the May 2025 conflict with India, asserting that the confrontation significantly damaged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s credibility both domestically and internationally.
Asif recalled that during the conflict, India sought support from the United States and China, but Pakistan responded decisively.
He emphasized that the country’s air force downed six Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale, and neutralized numerous drones during the 87-hour war, which ended with a US-brokered ceasefire on May 10. “Our aircraft have been tested, and we are receiving so many orders that Pakistan may not need the IMF in six months,” he said, highlighting the economic potential from rising defence deals.
The minister also criticized India’s claims regarding the Pahalgam tourist attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which Islamabad denies, urging a neutral investigation.
Drawing comparisons, he noted that unlike Venezuela, Pakistan possesses a large, advanced military that has earned global recognition.
Asif expressed concerns over regional security, citing links between the Afghan Taliban, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and India. He alleged that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government allowed TTP elements to collect extortion funds.
On international matters, Asif questioned the legitimacy of certain US and Israeli actions, labeling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a severe violator of human rights and calling for accountability.
The minister concluded by underscoring Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty and maintain regional stability. Rising defence contracts and proven military capability, he argued, provide the country with strategic and economic leverage, potentially reducing dependence on external financial support such as IMF loans in the near future.
