An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission here to review reforms being undertaken by the government has returned "satisfied" with the progress made so far. This could translate into a low-interest, three-year loan early next year for the implementation of the poverty reduction strategy, now being prepared.

Another mission will arrive in November to negotiate and finalise the loan under the Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility-which will replace the Fund\'s Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility.

Nepal can draw up to $100 million dollars from the IMF, its borrowing quota which is generally extended to offset foreign exchange crunches.