IMF urges action in Antigua to handle crisis

(Barbados Nation) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged the Antigua and Barbuda government to move decisively in response to the challenges presented by the global economic crisis.

The advice came at the end of the IMF’s 2009 Article IV consultations in the twin-island nation.

Noting the weak economic prospects and the challenges for fiscal performance, mission chief Guy Meredith said that “concerted efforts at both the national and regional levels to develop comprehensive strategies and programmes should be beneficial to Antigua and Barbuda”.

“Mr Meredith also indicated that once the government had finalised its national programme, the Fund would be willing to return to Antigua to provide any assistance that may be required by the government,” said a statement issued after the discussions.