This year, Slovenia is expected to achieve modest economic growth, though it will remain robust. In the published forecast for Slovenia, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicted 0.2 per cent lower economic growth, namely 1.6 per cent. This year, average inflation is expected to reach 6.4 per cent. The international financial market shocks did not significantly impact Slovenia.

As the State Secretary Nikolina Prah emphasised in Washington, it involves relatively positive forecasts. “However, we are aware of high inflation; the energy crisis has left its marks,” she said.

The efforts of the World Bank Group, as emphasised in Washington, will continue to be oriented towards the elimination of extreme poverty and a more equitable distribution of wealth. In that regard, the Group is aware of the new objectives that must be achieved, which require substantial financial resources, also from the private sector. The objectives encompass the transition to a sustainable economy, elimination of the consequences of climate change and improvement of the inclusion of all social groups.

In Washington, further negotiations for a new constituent agreement, namely for the next 10 years, between November 2024 and October 2034, were relevant for Slovenia. Slovenia strives to be better represented in the constituent services office and thereby strengthen its presence in the World Bank.

Slovenia also participated in the round table on Ukraine. The IMF and the World Bank have committed to further helping Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression. At the meeting, Slovenia highlighted further support and assistance in accordance with its capacity.