Statement by IMF Managing Director Rodrigo de Rato on Hurricane Damage in the Caribbean

Mr. Rodrigo de Rato, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement today:

"Hurricane Ivan has wrought widespread damage on several Caribbean nations in the past few days. I would like to express on behalf of the IMF management and staff our deepest sympathy and condolences to the people in the many affected countries at this difficult time.

"As in the past, the IMF stands ready to help the affected member countries within its mandate in any way it can. As the reconstruction and recovery work get underway, the IMF will remain in close contact with the concerned member countries and the other international financial institutions with a view to fully supporting these efforts."