Press Release No. 14/04

Press Release: IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde Starts Visit to Mali

January 8, 2014

Ms. Christine Lagarde, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), arrived in Bamako today for a three-day visit to Mali. She will meet with President Keita, Prime Minister Ly and his cabinet, senior government officials as well as women leaders, representatives of the private sector, civil society and donors.

“I'm very pleased to be here in Bamako for my first visit as Managing Director of the IMF. This visit is a testimony to our strong relationship with Mali. I look forward to strengthening our partnership for the benefit of the people of Mali," Ms. Lagarde said after she arrived in Bamako.

Ms. Lagarde visited Kenya from January 4-7. As Managing Director, she has previously visited Cote d'Ivoire, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, and Mauritius in Sub-Saharan Africa.

In addition to her meetings with officials, private sector and civil society, Ms. Lagarde will address the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of Mali.