Pakistan Requests $5B Deposit and $5B Oil Financing Facility from Saudi Arabia

Pakistan has formally requested a $5 billion long-term deposit and an additional $5 billion oil financing facility from Saudi Arabia to strengthen its fragile economy and manage balance-of-payments pressures. The government seeks to convert an existing $5 billion deposit held in the State Bank into a 10-year arrangement, providing greater financial stability. At the same time, Islamabad has proposed expanding the current $1.2 billion oil facility to $5 billion on deferred payment terms, allowing the country to secure essential energy supplies while easing immediate fiscal constraints. Officials emphasize that such measures would help stabilize Pakistan’s foreign reserves, support energy imports, and sustain ongoing development projects. Analysts say that backing from Saudi Arabia could also boost investor confidence and strengthen bilateral economic ties, especially at a time when Pakistan faces rising external pressures and regional uncertainties. Stakeholders are urging swift negotiations to finalize the terms and ensure timely disbursement, which would provide a lifeline for both the government and the private sector.