International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde says she has not received any request from South Africa for a financial aid programme.
South Africa struggles with weak economic growth and rising debt.
“I am not here to discuss any kind of financial support or to negotiate any kind of programme and I have not received any request to that effect,” Lagarde told reporters in Pretoria.
“That is crystal clear and I hope it puts to bed some of the rumours or noises here and there about this particular matter.”
Meeting with the Reserve Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago earlier, Lagarde says fighting corruption can improve the status of South Africa’s economy. She commended the State Capture commission as the best decision for the people of South Africa.
I had an excellent meeting with #SouthAfrica’s economic team to discuss the Government’s reform agenda, and how to boost growth and create more jobs in the country. pic.twitter.com/YZcOHVES0H
— Christine Lagarde (@Lagarde) December 19, 2018
In November, the IMF praised South Africa for its economic reforms. The financial institution said strengthening the finances of state-owned entities and reducing the cost of doing business were key to the economic stability of South Africa.
She also with President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria.
Discussions between President @CyrilRamaphosa and Managing Director Ms Christine Lagarde centred around recent economic developments in the country. pic.twitter.com/9ZWbp1C7BJ
— PresidencyZA (@PresidencyZA) December 19, 2018
SABC News Tsepiso Makwetla speaks to IMF’s Christine Lagarde:
Watch Kganyago and Lagarde media briefing:
-Additional reporting by Reuters
