The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has launched a staff mission to Lebanon to discuss the country’s plans for restructuring its banking sector, IMF spokesperson Julie Kozack said on Thursday, while declining to comment on whether a preliminary agreement was expected soon.
Kozack told reporters that the IMF delegation was currently in Beirut, engaging in discussions with Lebanese officials as part of efforts to develop a comprehensive reform programme aimed at restoring financial stability and supporting economic recovery.
She added that IMF staff would provide relevant updates once the mission concludes.
Lebanese media reported that Finance Minister Yassine Jaber had told reporters earlier this week that the IMF mission would continue until Friday. He also expressed hope that a preliminary agreement could be reached before the end of the week.
Last month, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said discussions on financial support for Lebanon were progressing intensively, with significant advances towards establishing a loan programme.
“We have made significant progress towards the program. We have still a bit more work to do together, and I’m confident we will be successful,” Georgieva said at the time.
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