Finance Minister Yassine Jaber: Ongoing events have delayed an agreement with the International Monetary Fund, but the government still intends to reach one

The finance minister told Reuters that the Lebanese delegation held a series of meetings described as productive with the International Monetary Fund in Washington, as part of ongoing efforts to advance financial and economic reforms.

He noted that the current developments on the ground have slowed the pace of reaching a final agreement on a cooperation program with the Fund, but that the government remains committed to concluding the agreement and moving forward with the recovery plan.

He pointed to a clear intention to quickly resume the negotiating track as soon as conditions allow, particularly after Parliament is able to form the specialized committees needed to keep pace with the required reforms.

He also revealed that coordination is underway with the World Bank to conduct an urgent and comprehensive damage assessment, in preparation for setting priorities and drawing up appropriate response plans.

His remarks included:

"The Lebanese delegation held productive meetings with the International Monetary Fund in Washington"

"The ongoing events have caused a delay in reaching an agreement on a program with the International Monetary Fund, but the government still intends to reach an agreement"

"We are determined to return quickly as soon as conditions permit and Parliament is able to form committees to continue the reform process"

"We are working with the World Bank to reach a rapid damage assessment"