IMF chief praises Montek Singh

Rodrigo de Rato, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, on Monday congratulated Montek Singh Ahluwalia on his appointment as Deputy Chairman of India's Planning Commission.

Wishing him all success in his new role, Rato said: "Ahluwalia has been the Director of the IMF's Independent Evaluation Office since it was set up in 2001 and has served in that position with distinction. The IMF has benefited greatly from the IEO's well researched and insightful reports of Fund programs and policies."

"As India continues on its path of economic reforms, it comes as no surprise to me that the authorities have once again turned to Ahluwalia for his services," he said.

Rato said the IMF and the IEO will miss the dedicated and committed service of Ahluwalia.

Ahulwalia, who teamed up with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in ushering in the reforms process during early 90s, was appointed the Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission on June 16.