Q: In 2011 there have been significant macroeconomic and political developments in the region and there has also been a new government in Lebanon since the middle of June. As a result of these developments the Washington-based Institute of International Finance has revised down its GDP [gross domestic product] growth forecasts for 2011 from 4% in January to between 1.1% and 3% in June this year. How do you see the impact of the macro and political developments in the region, and in particular those in Syria and Egypt, on Lebanon and its economy?
Mr Sader: We [haven't had], until now, a clear opinion about the rate of growth in the Lebanese economy in 2011. As you mentioned, I have heard figures of 1.1% to 3%. Others are speaking about less than 2% now; a few months ago their position was about 2.5%. Today maybe it is less than 2%, but definitely it will be a growth of much less than last year or the past four years.
