The Annual Meetings will focus on global economic and development policy challenges. The funding, lending, governance and orientation of the IMF and World Bank are likewise key themes on the agenda.
In view of the fiscal policy challenges, healthy public finances and an open economic exchange with clear rules are crucial for Switzerland. A resilient financial system is also of prime importance. That is why Switzerland is committed to ensuring the resolution of systemically important banks in the event of a crisis.
In Switzerland's view, the IMF should focus on financial, monetary and economic policies that promote sustainable growth and stability. Moreover, it advocates moderate IMF financial assistance that is accompanied by reform programmes, while underlining its longstanding financial commitment to low-income countries. Furthermore, Switzerland welcomes the Principality of Liechtenstein's accession to the IMF and to the Swiss-led constituency.
Switzerland welcomes the ongoing reform to the World Bank's financial and business model, which is designed to increase the effectiveness of its activities. It is committed to ensuring that the World Bank systematically coordinates its activities with other development players and consistently implements environmental, social and governance standards in its projects. Furthermore, Switzerland supports initiatives that mobilise private capital to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
A meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors will take place in the run-up to the Annual Meetings. During this, Switzerland will advocate the strengthening of global financial stability, as well as legal certainty and a level playing field with respect to international tax rules, among other things.
In addition, while in Washington D.C., Federal Councillor Parmelin will renew a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Switzerland and the United States in the area of vocational education and training.
Address for enquiries:
FDF Communications, tel. +41 58 462 60 33, kommunikation@gs-efd.admin.ch
EAER Communications, tel. +41 58 462 20 07, info@gs-wbf.admin.ch
FDFA Communication, tel. +41 58 460 55 55, kommunikation@eda.admin.ch
