Shia: Reforms for Lebanon, Not Just for the IMF

U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shia indicated that "there must be a start to restoring trust among the Lebanese in the financial and economic sector. The second important matter is to secure cheaper and cleaner energy and to provide electricity for schools, hospitals, and factories; the second step is to work on reforms that satisfy the World Bank." Shia added, in a speech delivered at the Association of Industrialists: "Lebanon should not lose any time in implementing reforms, especially in front of the World Bank," emphasizing that "reforms are not just for the IMF, but for Lebanon as well." Shia also called for "conducting presidential elections on time," stating, "We are here to support constitutional duties."