By Ebi Kesiena
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said on Wednesday that it expects to reach a $2.6 billion lending agreement to assist Ivory Coast face ongoing economic challenges “in the coming days.”
The IMF announced in a statement following a visit to the country by senior officials that Indirect and direct subsidies to curb price pressures, higher security spending, and worsening terms-of-trade amid robust domestic demand, led to a widening of macroeconomic imbalances in Ivory Coast last year.
In response, the Fund said it expects to finalize a staff-level agreement worth more than $2.6 billion in the coming days.
Wednesday’s announcement comes following a request for financial assistance by the Ivoirian government.
The Fund’s proposals, which would require approval by the IMF Executive Board, are aimed at “preserving fiscal and debt sustainability,” by making a number of structural reforms to the Ivoirian economy.
‘‘These would include strengthening social protection for vulnerable households, improving public financial management and investment efficiency, and promoting private-sector led and more inclusive growth by creating new employment opportunities,” the Fund said.
