IMF Urges Lebanon to Implement Unified Reforms for Economic Recovery

The IMF urged Lebanon to adopt a unified reform programme to foster economic recovery and attract investor confidence. During discussions with President Aoun, IMF officials stressed the need for coordinated strategies, while Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s dedication to necessary reforms. Hezbollah, on the other hand, maintained its stance on preventing Israeli presence in southern Lebanon and emphasized its defensive posture against perceived threats.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called on Lebanon to implement a unified financial reform programme aimed at enhancing economic recovery and rebuilding investor confidence. This recommendation was presented during a meeting between IMF mission head Ernesto Ramirez Rigo and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace. Rigo emphasized the importance of a coordinated strategy, developed in collaboration with Lebanese institutions and the IMF, to expedite the recovery process.

President Aoun expressed gratitude for the IMF’s support, reiterating Lebanon’s commitment to necessary reforms, which he considers a national priority. The IMF had previously established a staff-level agreement in April 2022 to provide Lebanon with a loan of 3 billion USD over 46 months, contingent upon the implementation of critical reform measures.

In parallel, Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem asserted that the organization would prevent any Israeli presence in southern Lebanon, reaffirming Hezbollah’s strength and its commitment to national defense. During an interview, Qassem mentioned that although Hezbollah suspended operations under the ceasefire agreement, it remains fully militarily prepared.

He also addressed alleged violations by Israel, stressing that they must retreat beyond the Litani River as stipulated in the ceasefire agreement. On internal affairs, Qassem reaffirmed Hezbollah’s commitment to national stability, advocating for the exclusive authority of Lebanon’s security forces in maintaining internal security. However, he insisted that Hezbollah’s arms are essential to confront what he termed an existential threat from Israel, stating that resistance is Lebanon’s inherent right.

In summary, the IMF emphasizes the urgent need for a unified reform programme in Lebanon to facilitate economic recovery and restore investor confidence. President Aoun’s acknowledgment of this priority underscores Lebanon’s commitment to necessary reforms. Simultaneously, Hezbollah’s leadership reinforces its stance on national defense and the prevention of external threats, signifying the complex interplay of domestic and international concerns affecting Lebanon’s stability.

Original Source: www.thehansindia.com