After Pakistan hosts US-Iran talks, netizens ask, ‘Who will pay hotel bills?’; Paresh Rawal takes ‘IMF’ dig

Veteran actor Paresh Rawal added a sharp geopolitical edge to a viral social media post about Pakistan hosting high-level talks between the United States and Iran. An X user had joked about the cost of accommodating global leaders in Islamabad, writing, “Biggest dilemma now … hotel bills kaun clear karega?" (Who will clear the hotel bills).

Replying briefly, Rawal wrote, “IMF", pointing to Pakistan’s long-standing reliance on the International Monetary Fund.

High-security talks held in Islamabad

The negotiations between Washington and Tehran took place at the five-star Serena Hotel, one of the most secure locations in

the capital.

Ahead of the talks, Islamabad was turned into a heavily guarded zone. Shops and offices remained shut for two days as delegations arrived, led by US Vice President JD Vance and senior Iranian officials.

Thousands of security personnel, including paramilitary and army troops, were deployed across key areas, especially the Red Zone, which houses major government offices and diplomatic missions.

Why the Serena Hotel was chosen

Security experts said the hotel’s location near the Prime Minister’s House and Parliament made it a suitable venue.

The 15-acre property, with over 400 rooms and multiple conference spaces, was capable of hosting large delegations of more than 150 officials from both sides, according to Reuters.

Talks end without final agreement

The 21-hour negotiations did not result in a final deal.

Vance said Washington had presented Tehran with its “final and best offer" but admitted that a key demand - a guarantee that Iran would not develop nuclear weapons - had not been secured.

Pakistan, which mediated the talks, said it would continue to support dialogue and urged both sides to maintain the temporary ceasefire.

The talks followed a sharp escalation after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 triggered retaliation from Tehran, increasing instability across the Middle East and affecting global markets.

US President Donald Trump said Washington had already achieved military success and suggested the talks would not change the strategic balance.

Pakistan’s IMF dependence highlighted

Rawal’s comment drew attention because Pakistan has long depended on support from the International Monetary Fund to stabilise its economy.

Reports say the IMF approved a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility in September 2024 to help Pakistan manage balance-of-payments issues and economic challenges.

India has earlier raised concerns about repeated bailouts, noting Pakistan’s continued reliance on external financial assistance.

Economic pressures remain

Pakistan has approached the IMF several times over the years to avoid financial crises, reflecting ongoing fiscal pressures and rising debt.

Recent reports suggest its foreign exchange reserves are under strain, including a $3.5 billion repayment to the UAE, which could affect IMF programme targets.

Experts say IMF programmes usually come with conditions such as tax reforms, energy pricing changes, privatisation and stricter fiscal discipline aimed at restoring economic stability.