India, April 4 -- Pakistan, a nation grappling with financial challenges, is preparing to repay a $3.5 billion debt to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this month, according to media reports.

A senior cabinet minister, while briefing anchorpersons, said the political leadership has decided to return the full amount, as reported by The Express Tribune.

Of the total sum, $450 million was originally borrowed in 1996-97 for a one-year period.

According to another government official, this portion is set to be repaid next week-nearly three decades later.

While the minister confirmed that repayment plans are underway, some senior officials indicated that discussions are ongoing about converting part of the debt into investment.

Reports sugge...