Speaking at a press briefing held ahead of these meetings, the minister stated that this major event would provide a better platform to address, approach, and raise the problems and challenges that developing countries, particularly in Africa, and in the Southern hemisphere in general, must face.
During these annual meetings, "we will have the opportunity to explore opportunities to promote global development, share experiences, and envision solutions to the world's problems, including those related to public finance, health crises, climate change, and geopolitical changes," explained Fettah.
Furthermore, the minister considered that the holding of the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings in Morocco reflects the confidence of the Bretton Woods institutions in the stability of the Kingdom, under the enlightened leadership of HM King Mohammed VI, in the strength of the Kingdom's institutions, and in its resilience in the face of crises.
Regarding the organizational aspects of the meetings, Fettah affirmed that the "Red City" is fully prepared to host this international gathering, and the development work in Bab Ighli, where this global event will take place, was completed on September 25, despite the constraints caused by the September 8 earthquake.
"Indeed, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that the meetings take place on the scheduled date, but we have given top priority to efforts to assist and support the populations affected by the earthquake," Fettah continued.
"On the High Instructions of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, we have managed, in record time, to provide assistance and urgent solutions to the affected populations, with the launch of assistance programs covering aspects such as health, education, food, and housing," she said.
In this regard, she emphasized in particular the program for the reconstruction and general rehabilitation of areas affected by the Al-Haouz earthquake, which was presented to the Sovereign on September 20.
The annual meetings of the IMF/World Bank will include side events to discuss several issues, including the energy crisis, climate challenges, migration, international cooperation, post-Covid recovery, and global political and economic fragmentation.
To host this international event in the best conditions, Morocco has made thorough preparations, with full mobilization of its airports, hotels, accommodation facilities, and adequate transportation at both the national and local levels.
Over a total area of 54 hectares, a campus of 23 hectares has been set up for the occasion at Bab Ighli, containing a plenary hall that can accommodate up to 4,000 people, conference and seminar rooms, media spaces, and a Moroccan pavilion where visitors can discover the local culture and cuisine.
According to the organizers, this major event will bring together more than 12,000 participants from all over the world, including approximately 4,500 representatives from the 189 official delegations led by finance ministers and central bank governors, to discuss global economic challenges, development issues, and financing policies in a context of heightened geopolitical tensions.