Special High-level Meeting with Bretton Woods Institutions, WTO and UNCTAD

Chair: H.E. Mr. Bob Rae, President of ECOSOC

10:30 – 10: 45 Opening Remarks by intergovernmental representatives

• H.E. Dr. Ryadh Alkhareif, IMFC Deputy Chair, IMF (confirmed)
• Representative of the Development Committee (tbc)
• H.E. Mr. Paul Bekkers, President, Trade and Development Board, UNCTAD (video message)
• H.E. Mr. Ambassador Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel, Chair of WTO General Council (tbc)

Interactive Dialogue between UN Permanent Representatives and the Executive Directors of the World Bank Group and IMF

10:45 – 11:40 Topic 1: The IMF’s Contribution to Financing for Development Agenda: Its Role in strengthening global macroeconomic and financial stability – a deep dive

The IMF has a strong role in helping countries maintain or restore macroeconomic and financial stability and implement sound policies that support sustainable and inclusive growth.

1. What lessons can be learnt from the IMF’s continued policy advice, capacity development and lending efforts to support countries facing balance of payment needs?
2. What past and current country examples would participants emphasize in highlighting the Fund’s support for strengthening countries’ macroeconomic frameworks, which are essential for sustainable development?

Speakers

Moderator: Veda Poon, IMF Liaison Committee Chair

• Discussant: Member State
• Discussant: Stakeholder - CSO
• Executive Director, IMF
• Interactive discussion: Questions/comments from the floor

11:40 – 12:35 Topic 2: The WBG’s Contribution to Financing for Development Agenda Reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development

Over the last 20 years, WBG’s annual financing grew fivefold to $120 billion in 2024, driven by shareholder support, capital framework reforms, and IDA financial transformation. The WBG Evolution has further expanded lending headroom, enhanced efficiency, introduced a new scorecard, and strengthened partnerships.

1. Over the next years, what are the priorities the WBG should focus to further increase its effectiveness and development impact? How should knowledge contribute to this?
2. In the new global context, what are the most realistic and effective avenues to further increase financial resources for development and emerging countries?
3. Which specific sectors and structural reforms should the WBG focus on when providing advice and financial support to client countries?

Speakers

Moderator: Mr. Matteo Bugamelli, Dean, Board of Executive Directors, The World Bank Group

• Discussant: Member State
• Discussant: Stakeholder - CSO
• Executive Director, WBG
• Interactive discussion: Questions/comments from the floor

12:35 – 12:45 Summary remarks

• Mr. Matteo Bugamelli, Dean, Board of Executive Directors, The World Bank Group
• Ms. Veda Poon, Chair, Liaison Committee, IMF Executive Board