May 20, 2016
SENDAI – U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew met today with French Finance Minister Michel Sapin on the sidelines of the G-7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting.
Secretary Lew and Minister Sapin discussed the importance of Greece, the IMF, and European institutions constructively working together to conclude the first review of Greece’s economic reform program and find a sustainable path forward in a timely manner. The Secretary underscored the importance of Europe following through on its commitment to put Greece’s debt on a sustainable path through meaningful debt relief, adding that all parties need to be flexible to successfully conclude the negotiations.
Secretary Lew noted the importance of international support for the Iraqi government’s efforts to accelerate economic reforms and to put its finances on a more sustainable path.
Secretary Lew discussed the continued engagement of the United States with the international community and private sector to explain the sanctions changes in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, as well as to combat Iran’s support for terrorism and other destabilizing activity. Secretary Lew and Minister Sapin reaffirmed their commitment to protect the international financial system from abuse and promote transparency by supporting the implementation of the Financial Action Task Force standards. Secretary Lew also emphasized the importance of maintaining sanctions pressure on Russia until it fulfills the provisions of the Minsk Agreements.
