David Malpass, World Bank Group president, gave a speech from Khartoum, Sudan, whose theme was Development in a Time of Upheaval.
Malpass outlined ways to increase economic growth, shorten the crisis caused by COVID-19, and resume the preparation of a strong foundation that can withstand future worldwide issues, he also addressed the Sudanese community.
"As I talk to people here in Sudan and see the faces of young people in this hall, I feel optimistic that we will help countries avoid a lost decade,” Malpass said. “As you walk your journey toward peace, prosperity and national unity, the World Bank Group, along with the rest of international community, are walking alongside you. By working together, we will build a better development path. The history of Sudan is yours to chart."
Malpass, the first World Bank Group president to visit the country in over 40 years, specifically mentioned how impressed he was with the Sudanese people and their development in the face of adversity. His visit to Sudan symbolizes the country’s effort to rejoin the world stage and re-engagement with the World Bank Group.
He noted that a high number of people have fallen into poverty during the pandemic, and he sees the near future as a time for rapid economic growth. His fear, though, is that this will become a "lost decade for development."
Setting the stage for the World Bank Group’s 2021annual meeting on the week of Oct. 11, Malpass noted four areas in which determined action should make a difference: achieving economic stability; leveraging the digital revolution; making development greener and more sustainable; and investing in people.