Qatar Joins Global Talks on Growth, Inflation Risks

Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Finance, participated in the meeting of Ministers of Finance, Central Bank Governors, and Heads of Regional Financial Institutions for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan (MENAP), held on the sidelines of the Annual Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, taking place from 13 to 18 April 2026 in Washington, D.C., United States.

The meeting discussed the impact of ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region and their implications for both regional and global economies, including disruptions to trade, energy markets, and supply chains, as well as challenges related to growth, inflation, and food security.

It also addressed ways to strengthen financial stability in light of these developments. Minister of Finance HE Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari, and his accompanying delegation participated in the meeting, which was chaired byKristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund.

In his intervention, He highlighted the impact of regional conflicts on the economies of the region, noting that geopolitical tensions have led to disruptions in trade and supply chains, higher costs, shortages of certain goods, pressures on economic growth, and rising inflation rates, in addition to the burden of rebuilding damaged infrastructure.

He stressed the importance of strengthening diplomatic solutions and dialogue, and the need for collective action to reinforce stability, uphold international law, and ensure the security of navigation and the smooth flow of energy supplies, thereby supporting growth and prosperity in the region.

He said: “This conflict has caused widespread damage to regional and global economies, affecting growth, supply chains, energy markets, and driving inflation higher.

This calls for stronger collective action, the reinforcement of diplomatic solutions, and the establishment of safeguards to prevent the recurrence of such crises in the future. We reaffirm our commitment to partnership with the IMF and the international community in addressing these challenges.”

He further noted that policy responses in Qatar continue to evolve in line with developments, with a focus on ensuring liquidity and financial system stability, while maintaining a balance between supporting various economic sectors and preserving fiscal sustainability, in coordination with IMF recommendations.

This meeting forms part of the Annual Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, currently taking place in Washington, D.C., to discuss key global economic developments and challenges.