Regarding the International Monetary Fund, which one of the following statements is correct?

1. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an organization of countries working to foster global monetary cooperation, secure financial stability, facilitate international trade, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth, and reduce poverty around the world. 2. Option (A) is incorrect: The IMF cannot grant loans to any country; eligibility is restricted. 3. Option (B) is incorrect: The IMF provides loans to both developed and developing countries facing balance of payments problems. 4. Option (C) is correct: The IMF's financial assistance and loans are available only to its member countries. Membership is a prerequisite for borrowing. 5. Option (D) is incorrect: While the IMF interacts closely with the central bank (and finance ministry) of a country, the loans are granted to the member country itself, not directly to its central bank as an independent entity.