The International Monetary Fund supports "many of the economic measures" announced by the new Italian premier Matteo Renzi in his keynote speeches to the Senate and the Chamber. "They are carrying forward the proposals that arose in the IMF's discussions with Italy in recent years," said Gerry Rice, the Fund's director of external relations.
In particular, the IMF welcomes the intention to cut the tax wedge. According to Rice, “the implementation of reforms remains crucial to ensure that Italy returns to a growth path. For Italy, 'high unemployment is a pressing problem and reforms on work and flexibility are crucial'.
Lagarde's spokesman also applauds Renzi's choice as regards the Treasury minister: "Pier Carlo Padoan was highly respected when he was at the IMF", explains Ruice.
