IMF releases $346 million to Venezuela after deadly earthquakes

Venezuela has gained access to $346 million held at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to support reconstruction efforts following powerful earthquakes that struck the country in June, acting President Delcy Rodríguez said.

Rodríguez said the funds would be directed toward recovery and rebuilding in areas affected by the disaster. “This will make it possible to support affected families, in particular in providing housing, infrastructure, and basic public services,” she wrote.

The financing comes after two major earthquakes off Venezuela’s coast on the evening of June 24, registering magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, less than a minute apart. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said the quakes were the strongest recorded in the country since 1900.

In the aftermath of the earthquakes, Rodríguez declared a nationwide state of emergency to coordinate relief and reconstruction efforts.

By Tamilla Hasanova