The International Support Group for Lebanon has urged the Lebanese Government to engage all relevant stakeholders, mainly the people, in consultations on its economic recovery plan.
In a statement it said Wednesday that it takes due note of the Lebanese Government’s unanimous adoption of its Financial Recovery Plan as a constructive framework for future reforms as well as its decision to request an International Monetary Fund (IMF) program as a “first step in the right direction.”
“The ISG also takes due note of the assessment by the World Bank that the plan recognizes the nature and depth of the crisis, the necessary structural reforms and adjustments needed to ensure a vibrant economy with sustainable growth and productive sectors, in a business climate and conditions favorable for private sector development and the prosperity of the Lebanese people,” said the statement.
“Recognizing the importance of domestic political support necessary for successful conduct and rapid completion of negotiations with the IMF, the ISG encourages the Government of Lebanon to engage all relevant stakeholders, most importantly the Lebanese people in consultations on the contents of the plan and ways to expedite its implementation.”
The statement also said that the Group encourages the Lebanese Government and parliament for joint action in creating the necessary conditions for timely implementation of the needed reforms and to ensure full transparency and accountability as called for by the people.
It expressed support to Lebanon to help it overcome its economic, monetary, and fiscal crisis and to address economic, social, security, humanitarian challenges, as well as the impact of the coronavirus pandemic facing the country.
It called upon the international community, including international organizations and financial institutions, to support Lebanon as it seeks to address its crisis.
“The ISG notes with concern the worsening economic situation, the growing poverty and the hardships on the population. It encourages the Government to remain committed to protect the rapidly growing number of poor and vulnerable segments of the population and encourages the Government to quickly finalize all necessary measures to unlock additional external financial assistance to address the increasingly dire humanitarian needs of the population,” said the statement.
The ISG also reaffirmed the need for internal stability and the right to peaceful protect to be protected.
