"The Egyptian authorities are working on their economic program," the spokesperson said. "As soon as that process is completed, we will be ready to send a technical team to Cairo to discuss possible financial support for a homegrown program."

 

Egypt has requested a $4.8 billion loan from the IMF to help plug twin deficits in its budget and balance of payments that have mushroomed since popular protests last year and lingering insecurity have kept investors and tourists away.