IMF Advocates for Unified Reforms to Stimulate Lebanon’s Economic Recovery
The IMF has urged Lebanon to enact a unified financial reform programme to enhance economic recovery and regain investor confidence. During a meeting with President Aoun, IMF official Ernesto Ramirez Rigo outlined a collaborative approach for recovery. Meanwhile, Hezbollah’s Qassem reiterated the group’s opposition to Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, emphasizing national defense.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called on Lebanon to implement a unified financial reform programme aimed at facilitating economic recovery and restoring investor confidence. This recommendation was presented during a meeting between IMF mission head Ernesto Ramirez Rigo and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace in Beirut. Rigo emphasized the importance of a coordinated plan developed collaboratively with Lebanese institutions and the IMF to expedite the nation’s recovery process.
President Aoun expressed gratitude to the IMF for its continued support, reiterating Lebanon’s commitment to necessary reforms, which he considers a priority for the nation. Notably, in April 2022, the IMF had reached a staff-level agreement with Lebanon to provide $3 billion as part of a 46-month financing programme, contingent upon the execution of specific reform measures.
In parallel, tensions concerning regional security were highlighted by Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem, who articulated that the group would not tolerate any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon. He stated that while Hezbollah ceased operations under a ceasefire agreement, it remains militarily prepared. Qassem accused Israel of committing violations over the past 60 days and underscored the importance of Hezbollah’s military capabilities in confronting perceived threats from Israel. He affirmed, “Israel poses an existential threat, and resistance is Lebanon’s right.”
Domestically, Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah’s support for stability and governance, emphasizing that security forces should retain exclusive authority over internal security matters, while also asserting the necessity of Hezbollah’s arms for national defense.
The IMF has underscored the critical need for Lebanon to adopt a comprehensive financial reform programme to recover from its ongoing crisis. This strategic move aims to restore international investor confidence while maintaining national priority as emphasized by President Aoun. Concurrently, Hezbollah’s stance against Israeli presence and commitment to national defense remains steadfast, highlighting the complex interplay of internal and external challenges facing Lebanon today.
Original Source: www.thehansindia.com
