Statement By IMF Mission Chief on Relations with Antigua and Barbuda

Mr. Guy Meredith, the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) mission chief for Antigua and Barbuda, made the following statement today in Washington, D.C.:

“Recent remarks reported in the press of Antigua and Barbuda have raised questions about the IMF's communications with the government regarding an IMF program for the country.

“The IMF has a constructive relationship with the authorities of Antigua and Barbuda. An IMF mission on Eastern Caribbean Currency Union common policies visited Antigua on February 8, 2009 (see Press Release No. 09/30). The 2009 Article IV consultation, which will discuss economic policies and prospects, is planned for late March 2009. The IMF has neither sought nor received a request for an IMF program from the government of Antigua and Barbuda.”