Future host of the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) scheduled for Marrakech next October, Morocco is in the spotlight during the spring meetings of the two international financial institutions, which take place from 10 to April 16 in Washington.
A diversified program to promote the assets and potentialities of the Kingdom, led by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, was implemented at the headquarters of the two institutions throughout this week.
Several key activities highlight the economic, tourist and cultural attractiveness of Morocco and contribute to creating enthusiasm around these high-level meetings scheduled in the ocher city from October 9 to 15.
Two pavilions have been set up, in collaboration with the Maison de l’artisan, at the level of the main buildings of the World Bank and the IMF, with an area of 350 m2 and 270 m2 respectively.
Built according to traditional Moroccan architecture, these two pavilions have several exhibition spaces including handicrafts, carpets and traditional Moroccan outfits.
The two pavilions arouse a notable enthusiasm on the part of visitors among the members of delegations participating in the spring meetings, journalists and international experts.
Exhibitions of photos and works of art highlighting young Moroccan artists have also been set up, in collaboration with the National Museums Foundation, allowing participants to discover the sensibilities and vitality of the Moroccan artistic scene.
The Kingdom’s tourist assets were highlighted through information desks presenting the new campaign “Morocco, land of lights”, launched by the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT).
Days dedicated to Moroccan gastronomy, notably through buffets, tasting sessions and accompanied by the emblematic tea ceremony, punctuate the program of activities in the headquarters of the two international institutions.
The Marrakech edition of the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the IMF marks the return of this major meeting to Africa following those held for the first time in Nairobi, Kenya, 50 years ago.
Each year, this event brings together leaders from the public sector (central banks, ministries of finance and development, parliamentarians) and the private sector, as well as representatives of civil society organizations and experts from academia.
Nearly 14,000 delegates from 189 member countries of these two institutions take part in these assemblies, which are held mainly in Washington and, every three years, in a member country other than the United States.