October 20, 2026
Finance Minister Yassine Jaber confirmed that the results of the meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in Bangkok represent a “valuable opportunity” for Lebanon, noting the growing international interest in Lebanese reforms, and warning at the same time of the danger of missing this opportunity.
In a statement to the Ministry’s official “Voice of Finance” digital platform following the delegation’s return, Jaber explained that the delegation felt an unprecedented positive atmosphere and great interest from the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and European friends, pointing out that Lebanon had come an acceptable distance on the path to reform, which encouraged international bodies to praise the progress achieved.
The Minister of Finance stressed that the practical translation of these positives lies in the adoption of the financial gap law, the completion of banking sector reform, and the restructuring of banks. He explained that the Governor of the Bank of Lebanon participated in the meetings and is working diligently on the banking file, expressing his hope for the concerted efforts of the institutions to advance it. He pointed out that the Constitutional Council is limited to a period of 30 days to decide on the appeal submitted by the President of the Republic regarding the bank restructuring law, while the draft financial gap law was referred to the House of Representatives to begin its study in the parliamentary committees.
Jaber stressed that the dialogue with the International Monetary Fund continues on a weekly basis and for long hours to reach a complete understanding, stressing that the Lebanese economy cannot advance, nor achieve its growth, without banks capable of lending and financing institutions, considering that the continuation of the monetary economy is no longer globally acceptable.
On the other hand, Jaber revealed a growing role for the World Bank in promoting regional openness, especially between Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, through regional connectivity projects that include railways and highways and facilitating the movement of goods and people. He pointed out that the President of the World Bank Group and the Director General of the International Monetary Fund stressed the economic benefits of this openness, indicating that it may achieve additional growth for each country of no less than 2% in domestic product.
Regarding political and security matters, Jaber pointed out that there is an integrated path that the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives are working on to address political issues, achieve security, and support the army. He noted the visit of the Prime Minister of Qatar to Lebanon and the accompanying renewal of support for the army and vital sectors, most notably electricity.
Jaber concluded by stressing that Lebanon is “preparing for the future,” stressing the need to proceed in parallel between establishing security and stability on the one hand, and advancing the economy, promoting openness and developing relations with the surroundings on the other hand, pointing out that there is no conflict between the two paths, but rather a necessary complementarity.
