The IMF anticipates an ongoing recovery in the world economy, with global growth of 3.9% in 2018. According to the IMF, the threat of declining global economic integration in particular poses risks. Against this backdrop, the IMF recommends strengthening economic policy buffers and tackling necessary structural reforms.

In the IMF Steering Committee (IMFC), Federal Councillor Ueli Maurer will welcome the strengthening of economic and financial resilience and commit to open product and financial markets, for example. Other topics are likely to include the framework conditions for trade, debt transparency in developing countries and the upcoming IMF quota reform.

The key topics up for discussion by the World Bank Group include the planned capital increase and associated minor adjustments to shareholders' voting powers. The progress achieved by the World Bank in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, catastrophe prevention and the issue of representation of women on the Executive Board will also be discussed.

While in Washington, Federal Councillor Johann N. Schneider-Ammann will sign a programme with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on capital mobilisation for green growth investments. The programme seeks to reduce CO2 emissions in developing countries.

In the run-up to the Meetings, there will also be a meeting of the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors which Federal Councillor Ueli Maurer and SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan will attend. As always, the event will provide the opportunity for bilateral contacts.

Switzerland to attend IMF and World Bank 2018 Spring Meetings in Washington