By Cyber Era NG Special Correspondent

Under war Ukraine has received assurances from the International Monetary Fund(IMF) that it would continue to be supported in its efforts to strengthen the nation’s economy challemged enormously by its ongoing war with Russia.

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva  stated this on her meeting with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, today.

The IMF boss said:  “It was my great honour to welcome President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to IMF Headquarters today.

“We spoke about the remarkable resilience of the people of Ukraine despite the enormous toll of the war. The economy is performing strongly, with GDP growth projected to reach at least 4.5 per cent this year. Inflation has continued to decline, to an annual rate of 5.1 per cent in November.

“We reaffirmed our close collaboration on the authorities’ economic programme supported under the IMF’s US$15.6 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which is part of a US$122 billion international support package. This programme has been vital to maintain macroeconomic and financial stability and support the ongoing recovery.

“We welcomed the approval of the second EFF review by the IMF Executive Board earlier today. With the much-needed support from the international community, Ukraine has been able to implement and sustain strong economic policies. The authorities also continue to demonstrate Ukraine’s commitment to tackling vital governance and corruption issues. This is an important testament to President Zelenskyy’s leadership and his economic team’s skillful policymaking and capacity to implement reforms.

“As the IMF has noted repeatedly, timely and predictable external financing is critical in sustaining the hard-earned economic gains. We look forward to our continued engagement with Ukraine in preserving macroeconomic and financial stability, implementing an ambitious reform agenda, and further building the foundation for a strong economy with sustainable growth and for Ukraine’s goal of EU accession.”