IMF's Lagarde: World economy fragile, faces downside risks
WASHINGTON (AP) — International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde says the world economy is recovering but fragile and "faces some downside risks."
In an online press conference Wednesday, Lagarde described the United States "a strong performer" and China "resilient" despite a recent drop in Chinese stock prices.
She also expressed optimism for the 19 countries that use the euro. The IMF expects the eurozone economy to grow 1.5 percent this year and 1.7 percent in 2016; it expanded just 0.8 percent in 2014.
"The euro area is beginning to turn the corner ... We have a more upbeat forecast than we have in a long time," she said.
Lagarde called again for Greece's creditors to reduce its debt burden.