The economic recovery in the U.A.E. is gaining strength, but subject to increased regional uncertainty. The government should undertake cost-benefit analysis and implement projects that have high economic return. In order to reduce government-related entities (GRE) risks, the authorities should...

This paper discusses Moldova’s request for a Three-Year Arrangement under the Extended Credit Facility and request for an Extended Arrangement. The economy remained overregulated and hampered by relative price distortions. High barriers to entry and low competition in telecommunications,...

This paper discusses the 2006 Article IV Consultation for Moldova and Request for a Three-Year Arrangement Under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility. The economic growth of Moldova has continued to be robust, although the drivers of growth—household consumption and...

This 2009 Article IV Consultation highlights that the Lithuanian economy is undergoing a severe adjustment, after years of rapid economic growth and financial integration. With the global financial crisis, the unwinding of the imbalances accumulated during the boom has led to a sharp economic...

Improvements in macroeconomic conditions are encouraging, and the current macroeconomic framework for 2006 and 2007 remains valid in Paraguay. The strong fiscal performance has applied also to the rest of the public sector. The authorities have submitted a budget proposal for 2007 that preserves...

The recent tightening of credit conditions in segments of mature financial markets abroad has not had an impact on Paraguay. The current mix of macroeconomic policies combined with favorable external conditions and the appreciation of the guaraní, have facilitated strong program performance and...

Serbia has undergone a significant transformation, going from post-conflict devastation to being a legitimate aspirant to EU accession status. An IMF-supported program helped the country navigate the global financial crisis, and recovery is in train. Economic institutions have improved, in...

This paper discusses key findings of the Sixth Review under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF) for Rwanda. All end-2008 quantitative performance criteria were met, and performance through March 2009 was broadly satisfactory. IMF staff recommends completion of the sixth review under...

Pakistan has implemented some reforms, including improvements in tax administration, removal of some tax exemptions, and the introduction of an interest rate corridor. The macroeconomic policies are overly expansionary and fundamental reforms to resolve the economy’s structural problems...

Lebanon is facing a difficult global, regional, and domestic environment simultaneously for the first time in more than a decade. Domestic policies should aim at instilling confidence and tackling key policy challenges, such as preserving macroeconomic stability and paving the way for a more...