The IMF’s fourth review of Egypt’s finances as part of an $8bn loan agreed in March (MEES, 8 March) kicked off this week as Cairo hopes to unlock the next $1.3bn tranche. Significantly IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva was also in town, meeting President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi as Egyptian officials attempt to persuade the fund to relax the timeline for economic reform (MEES, 25 October).
While public statements made during her visit largely focused on the positive steps Egypt has taken to implement reforms during a tumultuous period for the region, the IMF’s intentions were made clear ahead of Ms Georgieva’s visit during a global policy briefing. (CONTINUED - 1588 WORDS)
