Lagarde: IMF Still open for Discussions with Greece

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde said Sunday the IMF is still open for talks with Greece to find a way out of the country’s debt crisis.

“I continue to believe that a balanced approach is required to help restore economic stability and growth in Greece, with appropriate structural and fiscal reforms supported by appropriate financing and debt sustainability measures. The IMF is prepared to continue to pursue that approach with the Greek authorities and our European partners,” Lagarde said in a statement.

Her comments came as debt talks between Greece and its creditors collapsed again over the weekend after Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras late Friday called a referendum in Greece on whether to accept the terms on the lenders to unlock badly needed financial aid.

“I have briefed the IMF executive board on the inconclusive outcome of recent discussions on Greece in Brussels. I shared my disappointment and underscored our commitment to continue to engage with the Greek authorities,” Lagarde said. “The coming days will clearly be important.”

Source: MarketWatch