and its most influential participant, the United States, also wanted something else: They were adamant that Chinese creditors restructure $545 million in debt — loans Suriname had used to build roads and housing.
As scores of middle- and lower-income countries grapple with an intensifying debt crisis, assistance is often held up by conflict between traditionally dominant Western institutions and a significant rising player: China.
Its financial institutions dispense loans accompanied by few demands, providing an alternative to the austerity prescribed by the I.M.F.
and the Biden administration have balked at providing relief until Chinese financial institutions participate.
Otherwise, they assert, Chinese lenders are free-riding on debt forgiveness extended by others.
Persons:
—, Biden
Organizations:
International Monetary Fund, International Monetary
Locations:
Washington, Suriname, United States, China, Asia, Africa, Latin America