The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Deputy Managing Director Kenji Okamura has sung high praises for the effective management of Guyana’s economy and infrastructure sector by the government.
Joined by IMF Executive Director Afonso Bevilaqua, Okamura on Thursday completed an elite two-day visit to Guyana. During this time, the two officials held consultations with President Dr. Ifraan Ali, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo and Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh.
Other visiting senior delegates from the IMF included Alternate Executive Director, Reshma Mahabir; Mission Chief, Alina Carare, and Advisor to the Deputy Managing Director, Chad Steinberg.
During the stay in Guyana, the IMF delegation was escorted to a number of sites of major infrastructural projects, as well as the Moraikobai indigenous community, through the intervention of the Ministries of Amerindian Affairs, Health and Housing and Water.
The Government’s Low Income Housing Development project at Cummings Lodge, the Paediatric and Maternal Hospital at Ogle were also among the locations visited.
The Deputy Managing Director, in a statement at the conclusion of his visit, expressed gratitude to parliamentary and senior officials for the warm hospitality and productive consultations.
“I congratulated the authorities on the unparalleled economic expansion. Guyana today is in the position to reap the benefits of rapidly increasing oil revenues due to the hard-won gains from implementing reforms and adjustment over the years. The plans put in place by the authorities and the strong progress are benefiting the entire population through better healthcare and educational programs, housing policies, energy, and transportation infrastructure. Most importantly, these plans are also providing current and future generations with entrepreneurial and work opportunities through very strong economic growth, and a more diversified and climate resilient economy,” stated Okamura.
It was noted by the IMF Deputy Director that despite Guyana’s economic boom, it still faces “significant human and infrastructure developmental needs. “Nevertheless, he commended the relevant authorities for the efforts made thus far to curb these issues and for efforts made towards increasing food security in both Guyana and the Caribbean region.
The Deputy Managing Director was also in praise for the government’s efforts to “develop a large skilled labour force to ensure a balanced growth path with low inflation and opportunities for well-paying jobs throughout the country.”
Okamura also expressed his desire for continued partnership with Guyana and the IMF through regular policy dialogue and technical assistance.