Governor Selimović at the Plenary Session of the Annual Meeting of the IMF and the WB

The Governor of the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina (CBBH), Jasmina Selimović, Ph.D., in her capacity as the Governor of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the International Monetary Fund (IMF), attended the Plenary Session of the Annual Meeting of the IMF and the World Bank Group Board of Governors, held in Washington.

The Assembly brings together Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of member countries, with the aim of considering key challenges to the global economy, preserving financial stability, supporting sustainable development and assisting developing countries.

During the session, it was emphasized that global economic growth remains relatively stable. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva announced a slight slowdown in growth - from 3.3% in the previous year to 3.2% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026. Within the Global Policy Agenda, the key priorities are the implementation of ambitious domestic reforms, preserving fiscal stability, maintaining open trade, preserving financial stability, and reducing global imbalances.

World Bank President Ajay Banga emphasized that job creation must be at the heart of global economic policies, with the private sector receiving support from governments through improving the regulatory and investment environment.

It was concluded that, in conditions of global uncertainty, trade fragmentation, and structural changes, policymakers must focus on measures that strengthen the resilience of economies and accelerate sustainable economic growth.

Governor Selimović participated in a meeting organized by the IMF's Department for Europe, intended exclusively for Governors and Finance Ministers. The focus of the meeting was on the economic outlook and economic policy challenges in Central, East, and South East Europe.

During the meeting, the latest projections of global and European economic growth were presented. According to these assessments, the countries of Central, East, and South East Europe, including the Western Balkans, expect moderate growth in the medium term, with a gradual decrease in inflation. However, there are risks, including global trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty.

As part of her stay in Washington, Governor Selimović also participated in the Women Leaders Breakfast Discussion event, dedicated to strengthening women's economic inclusion and supporting women's entrepreneurship.

This special meeting was hosted by Antonella Bassani, World Bank Vice President for Europe and Central Asia, and brought together women central bank leaders, finance ministers, and representatives of international financial institutions. The discussion focused on the importance of women's role in shaping economic policies, advancing financial inclusion, and building more resilient economies through women's equal participation in decision-making processes.

Governor Selimović emphasized that women's economic inclusion is not only an issue of equality, but also a key development priority:

"Women's economic inclusion creates more resilient communities, diversified economies, and a more just society. Through programs like the We-Fi Initiative, we are building a bridge between equal opportunities and sustainable development."

She also emphasized that the CBBH will continue to promote gender inclusion through financial education and inclusion programs, and through active participation in international networks such as We-Fi and OECD/INFE.

The Women Leaders Breakfast Discussion was held as part of the official program of the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings, and represents an important platform for networking women leaders from around the world and joint action to advance gender equality in the financial and economic sectors.