"We will face difficulties in 2023 as well," he said, adding, "That's the truth. That's the reality."
The United Nations estimates that around 80% of the population is skipping meals to cope with food shortages and soaring prices.
"We are now entering the negotiations as a bankrupt country," he said.
“Because of the state of bankruptcy in which our country finds itself, we must submit to them, separately, a plan on the sustainability of our debt. It is only when (the IMF) is satisfied with this plan that we can conclude an agreement."
Last week, the IMF stressed that there was still work to be done to straighten out the country's finances and correct its budget deficit, before it could reach a financing agreement to resolve its balance of payments crisis.
The IMF has also called on the country to end corruption and substantially raise taxes, while stopping energy subsidies that have long been a drain on the state budget.
Unable to repay its $51 billion foreign debt, the government declared default in April.
For months, the country has lived to the rhythm of daily power cuts, fuel and food rationing, and galloping inflation.
The lack of foreign currency no longer allows us to import enough food, fuel and other essential products.
Recently, the country lowered the minimum age from 23 to 21 for a woman to work abroad and earn much-needed dollars.
All "non-essential" government institutions, as well as schools, have been ordered to close until July 10 to reduce travel and save energy.
Among the most affected is also the elderly population.
"Think of how this situation affects our seniors," said the 73-year-old Prime Minister.
“Poverty is spreading among them” and their purchasing power “has decreased by around 50%”.
© 2022 AFP