Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, recently represented Fiji at the Commonwealth Finance Ministers’ Meeting during the 2025 World Bank-IMF Annual Meetings in Washington D.C. This significant event, themed “Strengthening Economic Resilience Amidst Economic Policy Shift,” gathered finance leaders from across the Commonwealth to tackle common challenges and promote inclusive, sustainable development.
In his address, Minister Prasad praised Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey for the recent launch of the Strategic Plan 2025–2030, describing it as a forward-looking guide for the organization. He emphasized the necessity of responsive democratic governance in the face of global pressure on democratic institutions.
Prasad also underscored the importance of fostering inclusive trade and development, highlighting the Commonwealth’s potential as a formidable free trading bloc. He urged member states to leverage shared resources—such as common legal systems and language—to enhance access to development finance and bolster economic collaboration.
A key focus of his address was the urgent need for climate action. Prasad reiterated that climate change must remain at the forefront of the Commonwealth’s agenda, particularly for vulnerable regions like the Pacific, which face unique challenges related to climate impacts.
The meeting highlighted the ongoing commitment to addressing pressing issues through cooperation and shared strategies. Engaging in such high-level discussions signals a hopeful approach towards building strong frameworks that not only respond to immediate economic needs but also secure a sustainable future for all member states in the Commonwealth. Overall, the meeting facilitated critical dialogues aimed at improving resilience and fostering long-term growth across diverse economies.
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