ISLAMABAD (AP) — The International Monetary Fund on Tuesday approved the release of $1.2 billion to Pakistan, giving the cash-strapped country a fresh boost as it works to recover from one of its worst economic crises in years.

The IMF in a statement said its executive board completed two reviews of Pakistan's economic programs, clearing about $1 billion under its main loan facility and another $200 million from a separate climate-focused program.

With the latest approval, Pakistan has received about $3.3 billion from the IMF since last year. Under the bailout, Islamabad will receive loan installments over 37 months if it meets the agreed conditions.

Pakistan, for decades, has relied on loans from the IMF and friendly nations to meet its financing needs.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif w

See Full Page