The IMF has said that the recently approved USD 3 billion loan programme will provide much-needed relief for Pakistan as it would anchor the cash-starved country's immediate efforts to stabilise its economy and ensure that the current balance of payments needs was fulfilled, a media report said on Friday.

The Washington-based global lender signed a Stand-by Agreement with Pakistan at the end of June to provide the country with a short-term loan for a period of nine months.