IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that high debt levels combined with low growth present a challenging economic future, particularly for countries like China and those in Europe.

Without significant fiscal adjustments, global debt is projected to approach 100% of GDP by the end of the decade, impacting major economies such as the UK, Brazil, and South Africa.

Low-income countries are grappling with high debt levels, exemplified by Sri Lanka's situation post-restructuring, highlighting the need for urgent financial solutions.

Key topics for discussion during the meetings include a potential debt crisis in lower-income countries, climate change, and poverty alleviation initiatives.

Support for Ukraine is anticipated to be a significant topic, with G7 nations discussing a proposed $50 billion loan to assist the country amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

This week’s meetings may mark the final attendance of U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who has been instrumental in many of the Biden administration's multilateral economic efforts.

This year's discussions are set against a backdrop of a recent global inflation crisis and the impending U.S. presidential election, which could significantly affect international economic policies.

The upcoming IMF and World Bank meetings are crucial for addressing global economic challenges amid fragile growth, high debt, and political uncertainty.

The economic environment has shifted since 2022, with rising interest rates signaling the end of an era of cheap borrowing, emphasizing the need for timely fiscal action.

Despite these serious global risks, financial markets appear complacent, raising concerns about future economic stability.

Concerns are rising regarding the potential return of Donald Trump as U.S. president, with fears of new tariffs and a withdrawal from climate cooperation that could disrupt global trade.

Global finance ministers and central bank governors are convening in Washington, D.C. for the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, focusing on the global economic outlook.