The 2024 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) will take place from October 21 to 26 in Washington, D.C., gathering influential leaders from government, business, and civil society to discuss critical global economic issues.

Key events will include the Plenary session, the Development Committee, and the International Monetary and Financial Committee meetings, focusing on topics such as global financial stability, economic growth, and sustainable development.

For Sri Lanka, these meetings are particularly significant as the country grapples with economic challenges, including debt restructuring and recovery from the pandemic. Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe will lead the Sri Lankan delegation.

Sri Lanka has been actively collaborating with the IMF on a debt restructuring program aimed at stabilizing its economy. Insights from the Annual Meetings could influence the progress of these efforts and provide a clearer path to financial stability.

Meanwhile , the World Bank's emphasis on sustainable development aligns with Sri Lanka's objectives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on poverty reduction, education, and healthcare.

Participation in these meetings offers Sri Lankan policymakers a chance to engage with global experts and refine strategies to enhance economic growth and governance. Overall, the 2024 IMF and WBG Annual Meetings present a crucial opportunity for Sri Lanka to seek international support and align its development strategies with global best practices.