Press Release No. 04/119

Press Release: Statement by IMF Managing Director on the Appointment of Montek Singh Ahluwalia

June 21, 2004

Rodrigo de Rato, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), made the following statement on Montek Singh Ahluwalia's appointment as Deputy Chairman of India's Planning Commission:

"I would like to congratulate Montek Singh Ahluwalia on his appointment as Deputy Chairman of India's Planning Commission and wish him all the best in his new role.

"Mr. Ahluwalia has been the Director of the IMF's Independent Evaluation Office (IEO) since it was set up in 2001 and has served in that position with distinction. The IMF has benefited greatly from the IEO's well researched and insightful reports of Fund programs and policies.

"Mr. Ahluwalia has had a distinguished career of public service dedicated to the pursuit of sound economic policies in his home country, India. As India continues on its path of economic reforms, it comes as no surprise to me that the authorities have once again turned to Mr. Ahluwalia for his services. He is dedicated and committed and will be missed at the IMF and the IEO."