World financial leaders from around the globe gathered in Washington, DC on Friday (17 October 2025) for the highly anticipated Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. The event, which is held every year, serves as a platform for representatives from the two organizations to discuss and address pressing global economic issues.
The Annual Meetings, which were held virtually last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, returned to an in-person format this year, with strict safety measures in place. The event was attended by top officials from over 180 member countries, including finance ministers, central bank governors, and other high-level representatives.
The theme of this year’s meetings was “Building a Resilient and Inclusive Global Economy”. The discussions focused on finding solutions to the economic challenges posed by the pandemic, as well as addressing long-standing issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
In his opening remarks, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized the need for global cooperation and solidarity in the face of the ongoing crisis. She stated, “The pandemic has shown us that we are all interconnected and that no country can tackle these challenges alone. We must work together to build a more resilient and inclusive global economy.”
The World Bank President, David Malpass, echoed this sentiment, stating that “the pandemic has highlighted the importance of investing in people and building strong and inclusive economies.” He also stressed the need for urgent action to address the growing debt burden of developing countries, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic.
One of the key topics discussed at the meetings was the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to low-income countries. The IMF and World Bank have been advocating for fair and equitable access to vaccines for all countries, as well as providing financial support to help developing countries procure and distribute vaccines.
Another important issue on the agenda was the impact of climate change on the global economy. The meetings saw a renewed commitment from member countries to take bold and decisive action to address the climate crisis. This includes investing in green technologies, transitioning to a low-carbon economy, and providing support to vulnerable countries to adapt to the effects of climate change.
The Annual Meetings also provided an opportunity for member countries to discuss their economic recovery plans and strategies. Many countries shared their experiences and best practices in dealing with the pandemic, as well as their plans for rebuilding their economies in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
The meetings also featured a number of side events, including panel discussions and seminars, on various topics such as digital transformation, gender equality, and infrastructure development. These events provided a platform for experts and policymakers to exchange ideas and share their knowledge and experiences.
The Annual Meetings concluded with a joint statement from the IMF and World Bank, outlining the key takeaways and commitments made by member countries. The statement emphasized the importance of working together to overcome the challenges posed by the pandemic and building a more resilient and inclusive global economy.
In conclusion, the 2025 Annual Meetings of the IMF and World Bank were a resounding success, with member countries reaffirming their commitment to global cooperation and solidarity. The discussions and agreements made at the meetings will play a crucial role in shaping the global economic landscape in the years to come. As the world continues to grapple with the effects of the pandemic, the meetings served as a reminder that only through collective action and cooperation can we overcome these challenges and build a better future for all.
