ISLAMABAD: A Turkish news agency has claimed that Saudi Arabia and Qatar may extend financial assistance worth $5 billion to Pakistan following the planned repayment of funds to the United Arab Emirates.
According to Turkish media reports, the development comes amid growing external financial pressures and regional tensions, during which Saudi Arabia has reportedly assured support to Pakistan.
The reports further stated that Saudi Arabia has pledged continued cooperation with Pakistan, including potential expansion of existing cash deposits and an extension of an oil financing facility set to expire later this month.
It was also claimed that Pakistan has requested additional financial assistance during high-level discussions, which allegedly included participation from senior officials such as Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and military leadership.
Turkish media further reported that Saudi Arabia and Qatar have assured Pakistan of combined financial support to ease pressure on foreign reserves and help meet external payment obligations.
Separately, sources cited in the report claimed that Pakistan is preparing to repay approximately $3.5 billion to the United Arab Emirates by the end of April following a request for early settlement.
Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves are currently estimated at around $16.4 billion, according to the report.
