IMF-World Bank meet under shadow of conflict
image for illustrative purpose
New Delhi: Finance ministers and central bankers from 191 countries will convene for the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group from April 13–18 in Washington, DC, to assess rising global economic risks amid the Middle East crisis.
The meetings come against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran and continued uncertainty over peace negotiations, which have heightened volatility in energy markets and supply chains. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that the Fund’s updated economic forecasts, due this week along with its Global Financial Stability Report, are likely to be downgraded. In January, global growth was projected at 3.3 per cent for 2026, with 2.1 per cent growth in the US, 1.4 per cent in the euro zone and 5.4 per cent in emerging Asia. These estimates are now expected to be revised lower.
Georgieva said the global economy, though resilient, is being tested again by geopolitical shocks. She emphasised the need to understand the transmission channels and scale of the crisis to frame effective policy responses.
The conflict has disrupted around 13 per cent of global oil flows and 20 per cent of LNG supplies, pushing up energy prices and straining supply chains worldwide.
The Spring Meetings bring together policymakers, private sector leaders and civil society to deliberate on global growth, financial stability and poverty reduction, with key decisions shaping the agenda of both institutions in the months ahead.
