24/04/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C. – World Bank / International Monetary Fund: Spring Meetings, April 13–18, 2026
The World Bank and International Monetary Fund (WB/IMF) 2026 Spring Meetings were held in Washington, D.C., from April 13–18, 2026. The Spring Meetings brought together central bankers, finance and development ministers, private sector leaders, civil society representatives, and academics to discuss key issues concerning the global economy, financial stability, poverty reduction, and international development. These meetings serve as a vital forum for dialogue on global economic policymaking and development challenges.
During the week-long discussions, one of the central topics was the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its significant impact on the global economy—particularly on fuel supply across low- and middle-income countries.
Throughout various sessions and interventions, Minister Paul emphasized to the WB/IMF leadership and senior management the urgent need to address the global fuel crisis and to take coordinated measures to help mitigate its economic shock.
Minister Paul further highlighted the disproportionate effects of the crisis on Small Island States and vulnerable nations in the Pacific region, which remain at the far end of the global supply chain. He expressed concern over rising market costs, not only linked to fuel shortages but also to longer delays in the delivery and shipment of food supplies, products, services, and essential commodities.
He urged for closer cooperation and targeted support to help the country and its regional partners navigate the economic challenges arising from disruptions in fuel supply.
The Minister also shared the decisive measures the Government has implemented to manage the impact of the fuel shortage and to ensure continued resilience in essential services and national operations.
In recognition of these efforts, representatives from the World Bank commended the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) for its proactive and forward‑looking approach in taking early steps to address the crisis. They noted that the Government continues to demonstrate commendable leadership and coordination in mitigating the effects of the sudden global fuel shock.
“We at the Bank and our partners stand firmly with the Marshall Islands and other countries experiencing this uncertainty. We remain committed to providing appropriate assistance, technical and advisory support, and exploring all available financial mechanisms to help your country during this critical time.”
The RMI Delegation to the Spring Meetings included Minister and Governor Paul of Finance, Secretary Mrs. Ayako, Alternate Governor and Speaker Brenson Wase, Chair Jack Ading of the Appropriations Committee, Chair and Representative Lanny Kabua from the House/Council of Irooj, Acting Assistant Secretary Mr. Mashmet (DIDA), Public Financial Management Manager Mr. Eugene Amor, Consultant Mr. Eugene Wase, and Ambassador Charles Paul, along with representatives from KADA Hon. Mayor Hirata Kabua, and Councilman Tony Maika and members from the USDM1 team.
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