ISLAMABAD-Adviser to prime minister on Finance, Miftah Ismail on Tuesday said that the measures taken by the government had improved exports as well, which would help narrow down the trade deficit.

In a meeting with IMF Resident Representative, Tokhir N Mirzoev, the adviser said that the government's concerted efforts had led to macro-economic stability and the country's economy was moving steadily on the path of growth.

He said that the economic data for the recent months showed increased economic activity which was encouraging.

He said that the government would continue to pursue prudent fiscal policy so as to consolidate the gains of the past four years. He expressed the confidence that future would bring better opportunities for Pakistan.

Mirzoev apprised the adviser of the Fund's discussions and assessments during the recent Post Program Monitoring as well as the schedule of the next Article IV consultations between the Fund and the Government of Pakistan

Meanwhile, Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) led by Shaiq Jawed, Chairman also met Dr Miftah Ismail separately.  The delegation discussed with the adviser, matters related to growth of textile exports.

The delegation requested for processing of tax refund, drawback cases on priority basis as it would resolve liquidity issues faced by exporters/manufacturers, and capital thus made available could be deployed by them towards expanding their businesses, in turn, helping country's export earnings.

The delegation also discussed matters regarding smooth provision of energy / electricity to textile industry on uniform and economical rates for optimal production.

Adviser Miftah Ismail said the textile industry was the backbone of the economy and major foreign exchange earner. He said the government has taken important measures for enhancing exports and would extend all possible support to the Textile industry along with other sectors of the economy and provide an environment, conducive to fostering business activities. He said that the export growth in the recent months is heartening and the exporters should put in greater effort to make sure that this rising trend is maintained in the future as well. He said the issues raised by the delegation would be accorded due consideration and necessary measures taken to address them accordingly.

Senior officials of the Ministry of Finance were present in the meeting.