Jordan’s Economy Faces Setback, Prime Minister Highlights Impact of Gaza Conflict
Jordan’s Prime Minister, Bisher al Khasawneh, voiced concerns over the Gaza conflict’s impact on the nation’s once-promising economy. The disruption in Red Sea shipping due to Houthi attacks, coupled with a significant dip in tourism post the Oct. 7 Hamas attack, has thwarted Jordan’s economic growth trajectory. Shipping costs for cargo arriving at Aqaba’s Red Sea port have surged, sparking worries about potential inflation. Despite the challenges, Jordan remains focused on its economic modernization plan, seeking to enhance competitiveness. The recent IMF approval of a $1.2 billion loan program reflects international confidence in Jordan’s economic policies, providing a ray of hope for recovery.
Morocco’s Ambitious Recovery Plan: Rebuilding After the Earthquake
Morocco’s commitment to invest $11.7 billion in earthquake recovery and development over the next five years is a testament to its determination to rebuild after the devastating earthquake that struck in early September. The earthquake, the strongest in Morocco in 120 years, exposed vulnerabilities in several regions, leaving thousands without shelter and underscoring inequalities. This ambitious recovery plan, supported by both government funding and international aid, aims to not only reconstruct infrastructure but also reduce social disparities and enhance access to basic services in affected areas. The annual cost of this plan, around $2.3 billion, is a relatively small fraction of the country’s GDP, signaling Morocco’s dedication to economic growth and development. As the nation embarks on this journey to rebuild, global solidarity and support will be instrumental in achieving a more resilient and prosperous future for the affected communities.
Morocco Prepares to Host World Bank-IMF Meetings Amidst Earthquake Aftermath
Morocco’s unwavering commitment to hosting the World Bank-IMF meetings in the wake of a devastating earthquake demonstrates remarkable resilience and dedication. With over 12,000 participants expected to attend, the country has spared no effort in preparing a world-class venue spanning 50 hectares. The earthquake’s impact assessment is underway to ensure that affected areas are rebuilt in a resilient and sustainable manner. Despite the tragic event, Moroccan officials emphasize that the designated venue remains untouched and fully operational. Marrakesh, the host city, is ready to showcase its achievements and reforms to a global audience, providing a vital platform for African nations to advocate for their long-term growth.
Morocco’s Central Bank Governor Promotes Multilateralism Amidst Global Challenges
Morocco’s central bank governor, Abdellatif Jouahri, has issued a compelling call to return to multilateralism as the world grapples with intricate economic and geopolitical dynamics. In a discussion with the IMF, Jouahri stressed the importance of assessing past multilateral efforts and building stronger institutions capable of addressing the increasingly complex global landscape. This plea comes as Morocco prepares to host the 2023 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the IMF, where high-level delegates will gather to confront the challenges of a fragmented world. Jouahri’s emphasis on prioritization and effective evaluation of actions highlights the urgency of collective efforts to navigate an ever-changing global paradigm.
Sri Lanka to present debt restructuring, IMF bailout plans to creditors
Crisis-hit Sri Lanka will make a presentation to its international creditors on Friday, laying out the full extent of its economic troubles and plans for a debt restructuring and multi-billion dollar International Monetary Fund bailout.
Ghana delivers biggest rate hike ever at emergency meeting
Ghana’s central bank on Wednesday delivered its biggest rate hike ever, a 300 basis point increase to 22%, at an emergency meeting to address the economy’s rapid deterioration amid crippling inflation.
Bank of England tells lenders to brace for economic storm
The Bank of England warned on Tuesday that the economic outlook for Britain and the world had darkened and told banks to ramp up capital buffers to ensure they can weather the storm.
IMF warns of ‘stagflationary’ risks in Asia, cuts growth outlook
The Asian region faces a “stagflationary” outlook, a senior International Monetary Fund (IMF) official warned on Tuesday, citing the Ukraine war, spike in commodity costs and a slowdown in China as creating significant uncertainty.
G20 must push relief to avoid debt crises – experts, campaigners
Wealthy nations must improve their floundering flagship debt relief initiative or face a spate of debt crises in the developing world, experts and campaigners say as a meeting of finance chiefs of G20 major economies opened on Thursday.
Analysis: Argentina’s strategy toward IMF deal hits a wall of doubt
Argentina’s insistence on its deficit spending plan is putting it on a fresh collision course with the International Monetary Fund, though analysts predict the country will be forced to change tack and clinch a deal to avoid a bigger crisis.
