News > As virus surges, Pakistan says there's no choice but to open

As virus surges, Pakistan says there's no choice but to open

Prime Minister Imran Khan said the refusal to impose a complete lockdown saved the country from economic collapse. The restrictions initially imposed in mid-March, within weeks were lifted bit by bit. Now, most businesses are reopened.

 “Pakistan is officially in a recession, The number of people living in poverty has risen to 40% from 30% since the pandemic began. Massive job losses could spark unrest,” said a former economic adviser.