IMF to Start Negotiations with Mexico Next Week on Stand-by Credit
Michel Camdessus, the Managing Director of the International
Fund, said in Washington today after meeting Mr. Guillermo Ortiz,
Secretary of Finance of Mexico that the IMF will start discussions
with the Mexican authorities on financial assistance to support the
Government's economic program:
"Mr. Ortiz has requested financial assistance from the IMF to
support Mexico's economic program. As in the past, we shall be glad
to assist the country in its stabilization and reform efforts in
whatever way we can.
"Mr. Ortiz detailed the economic policies announced earlier this
week by the Mexican government, which are aimed at stabilizing the
economy, restoring market confidence, and deepening structural reform.
The principal goals of the program are the containment of inflation and
the reduction in the external current account deficit. The program is
centered on a further strengthening of the public finances, a
correspondingly restrictive monetary policy, and avoiding a wage-price
spiral. The authorities have also announced the expansion of their
privatization program to promote faster economic growth and social
development.
"These policies provide a solid basis for discussions on an
agreement that could be supported by the use of IMF resources.
Accordingly, an IMF team will travel to Mexico next week to start
negotiations on a stand-by credit," Camdessus said.