Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Godwin Friday departs St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Friday to lead the country’s delegation to the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, in Bangkok, Thailand, from Oct. 12 to 18.
“The meetings come at an important time for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as the Government continues to pursue opportunities to strengthen the economy, attract investment and create jobs,” the Office of the Prime Minister said in a press statement.
The annual meetings bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, international financial institutions, and development partners to address global economic challenges, financial stability, debt sustainability, and development financing.
“For Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, participation offers an important opportunity to engage directly with institutions that play a significant role in the country’s economic development,” the press release said.
“These discussions are particularly relevant as the Government works to improve fiscal management, address financing needs and pursue sustainable support for national development priorities.”
The release said the value of these partnerships is evident through World Bank-supported initiatives in SVG, including the Beryl Emergency Resilient Recovery Project, which supports the restoration of livelihoods and critical infrastructure following Hurricane Beryl, which impacted the country in July 2024.
During the annual meetings, Friday is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with senior IMF officials and meet with representatives of the World Bank Group and the International Finance Corporation.
His programme also includes the Caribbean Caucus, the Caribbean Ministerial Meeting and the Small States Forum, which will focus on strengthening private sector growth and creating jobs.
“These engagements will provide opportunities to advance discussions on public financial management, development financing, investment and the particular economic vulnerabilities facing Small Island Developing States.”
Accompanying the Prime Minister are Dwight Fitzgerald Bramble, minister of foreign affairs, foreign trade, foreign investments and diaspora affairs; Ambassador Kevin Hope, senior advisor to the prime minister and ambassador for finance, climate and investment; Edmond Jackson, director general of finance and planning; Kenrick Morris, budget director; and Corporal Desrick Quashie, the head of the prime minister’s security detail.
“The delegation brings together expertise in finance, budgetary planning, investment and international relations,” the release said.
It said Hope will provide strategic advisory support and coordinate engagements with key development partners, including follow-up on bilateral discussions.
Senior finance officials will provide technical support on fiscal and budgetary matters, while Bramble will support engagements on international cooperation and investment opportunities.
“The Government recognises the importance of managing public resources carefully. Engagement with international financial institutions remains an important part of efforts to strengthen the country’s fiscal position, support sustainable economic growth and pursue opportunities that can deliver meaningful benefits to Vincentians,” the release said.
During the prime minister’s absence, Deputy Prime Minister, St. Clair Leacock, will act as prime minister from Oct. 9 to 14.
Nigel Stephenson, minister of transport, infrastructure and physical planning, will subsequently assume the responsibilities of acting prime minister from Oct. 14 to 18.