Naharnet

Aoun Promises World Bank Delegation Economic Reforms in Line with Political One

President Michel Aoun broached the overall economic situation at the local scene with a visiting delegation from the World Bank headed by World Bank Group Vice President for Middle East and North Africa, Ferid Belhaj, the National News Agency reported Monday.

"Political reforms that have been implemented in Lebanon will be followed by economic ones. Projects that help activate economic growth and develop infrastructure are a priority," the President told his visiting delegation.

"The approval of two state budgets in one year is one of the most important reform steps after the country had remained without a budget for 12 years," Aoun said, stressing that fighting corruption is one of the top priorities of all the political parties.

The President also welcomed the role played by the World Bank helping Lebanon to finance necessary development projects, and welcomed efforts to strengthen partnership with the World Bank.

For his part, Belhaj said that the World Bank has always been ready to help Lebanon through financing development and production projects.

"The two-billion-dollar portfolio allocated by the World Bank for Lebanon is supposed to benefit the country as per priorities set by the Lebanese state," he added.

Belhaj finally welcomed the reforms achieved by Lebanon politically and economically, "which will enhance international confidence in Lebanon."

Talks also focused on the proposed solutions for the economic situation in Lebanon in the wake of CEDRE conference.


Copyright © 2012 Naharnet.com. All Rights Reserved. https://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/249017