The International Monetary Fund confirmed that preliminary discussions for a possible financing program for Lebanon have begun.

In this regard, IMF spokesman Gerry Rice said during a press conference: “Preparatory technical discussions have begun. It is clear that strong policies and reforms are required.”

It is noteworthy that the President of the Republic called, earlier, for a quick resumption of the cabinet sessions headed by Najib Mikati, which have been suspended since last October 12, as a result of Tayouneh events, in order to return to “negotiate with the International Monetary Fund” and reach an agreement on a support plan that will extricate Lebanon from its severe economic crisis.

The IMF program is widely seen as the only way for Lebanon to release much-needed aid into the country.