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IMF members call for more support for countries facing funding gaps
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Iraq programme request disclosed; Lebanon negotiations continue
Iraq has requested an IMF loan programme, managing director Kristalina Georgieva said on October 17, pledging financing and policy support. Speaking in Bangkok, she also reported progress in negotiations with Lebanon, with further work remaining, Reuters and The National reported. These reports do not date Iraq’s request or announce a loan amount, completed agreement or disbursement. The IMF’s published lending process explains the distinction: a request begins discussions about financing needs and programme terms. Even a subsequent staff-level agreement requires Executive Board approval before it becomes final.
IMF: Lending and the approval process · The National: IMF to accelerate talks with Iraq and Lebanon · IMF to 'firmly' support Iraq, more work needed on Lebanon program, Georgieva says
Committee statement calls for support without specifying a new funding total
IMF member countries called on October 17 for increased support for countries facing temporary financing shortages linked to wars and high energy prices, Reuters reported. The statement followed an IMFC meeting in Bangkok; chair Mohammed Al-Jadaan said all members agreed its language. It specifically encouraged support for countries with sustainable debt and strong reform programmes. Several members provided assurances of support for the Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust, which assists poorer countries. The concrete development is a collective policy call: Reuters’ account specifies no new funding total or completed disbursement.
IMF: IMFC Statements and Documents — October 16–17, 2026 · IMF members call for more support amid war shocks, ‘advanced intelligence’ risks