Lebanon Commits to Completing Reforms for IMF Agreement to Restore Economic Confidence

In a meeting focused on the ongoing cooperation between Lebanon and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Finance Minister Yassin Jaber received the IMF Resident Representative in Lebanon, Federico Lima, who introduced the Fund's new representative in Lebanon, Yahya Saeed. The visit served as an opportunity to review the progress of collaboration between the two parties and the reform measures Lebanon is working to complete, aiming to reach a final agreement with the IMF that would support economic and financial recovery efforts.

Minister Jaber reiterated Lebanon's commitment to completing all required legal and legislative procedures aligned with the reform program, paving the way for an agreement with the IMF that would contribute to strengthening financial stability and restoring confidence in the Lebanese economy. The IMF delegation praised the Ministry of Finance's work and the measures it has taken within the government's plan to address the challenges posed by Lebanon's difficult security conditions. This was achieved through institutional and coordinated efforts with all relevant institutions, enabling the government’s emergency plan to meet the demands and needs of the current phase while maintaining financial and monetary stability, thereby protecting confidence in the national currency.

The discussions also covered the general situation in Lebanon and the region. Minister Jaber welcomed the agreement reached between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that the ceasefire included in the agreement concerning Lebanon would be stable and final, given its positive implications across various levels.

Jaber pointed out that consolidating security stability would help accelerate the return of displaced persons to their areas, reactivate the work of public institutions and administrations, stimulate economic activity, and attract investments. Additionally, it would enable Lebanon to benefit from the summer tourism season and the influx of Lebanese, Arab, and foreign tourists and visitors, supporting various productive and service sectors and enhancing opportunities for economic growth and recovery.

The minister also praised the resilience and determination of the people in the South, Bekaa, and the southern suburbs to hold on to their land despite significant sacrifices and challenges. He noted that the residents of the South, as in previous difficult periods Lebanon has faced, have once again demonstrated their deep connection to their land and villages by initiating their return to revive life there, even ahead of the state and its institutions responsible for rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts.

Jaber considered this spirit a fundamental pillar signaling an exceptional will for recovery and revival, sending a message of confidence to the world that the Lebanese people, through their determination and attachment to their land and rights, are capable of overcoming crises and restoring the cycle of life.