The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said it will closely monitor the impact of the US-led war on Iraq on the global economy. The organisation will also examine the impact on individual member countries, IMF spokesman Thomas Dawson said. Authorities generally were keeping an eye on the effects of the war, he said, noting that the European Central Bank had issued a statement saying it was ready to act if needed to provide liquidity to markets.
Concern over the fallout of the conflict was not focused on any particular region, Dawson said. "I think it is important for all countries. . . to continue following the policy mix that minimises vulnerability," he added. The IMF was proceeding with plans to hold its 12-13 April spring meetings in Washington, but with special security, Dawson said. ///www.fxcentre.com