IMF Says ‘Unique’ Opportunities Awaiting Iran after Sanctions Relief
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – An official with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said that the July 14 nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers and the ensuing lifting of sanctions against Tehran will create “unique” economic opportunities for the Islamic Republic, a report said.
“The agreement on Iran’s nuclear program and the envisaged lifting of economic sanctions bring a unique opportunity to build on and broaden the achievements of the past two years,” Martin Cerisola, the assistant director of the IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia Department, said, The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.
He made the remarks following a September visit to assess the country’s economy.
Meanwhile, Cerisola said that if Iran wants to reap the full benefits of the nuclear accord, it should make fundamental reforms to its economic system.
“The complexity and extent of the problems require strong political leadership and support for decisive and coordinated action,” Cerisola said.
Cerisola and other IMF staff visited Iran as part of an annual review of its economy. The IMF team is expected to release a full report from the visit in early December.
Iran and the Group 5+1 (Russia, China, the US, Britain, France and Germany) on July 14 reached a conclusion on a lasting nuclear agreement that would terminate all sanctions imposed on Tehran over its nuclear energy program after coming into force.
The promising prospect of trade with Iran has prompted many countries to explore the market potential in the populous Middle East nation.
