Montevideo, July 1, 2024 – Valeria Di Fiori assumes the role of Resident Representative of the World Bank Group (WBG) in Uruguay today. This position aims to unify the institution's leadership in the country, supporting both public and private sector priorities. The new structure will offer a single point of contact for accessing the full range of World Bank Group products and services, enhancing its ability to address global challenges and promote development efficiently.
The introduction of joint country representation is a significant step toward building a stronger World Bank Group. Uruguay is one of 21 offices transitioning towards unified representation, which includes the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).
“The relationship between Uruguay and the World Bank Group currently focuses on identifying substantive solutions to complex challenges, such as developing innovative financial mechanisms to address climate change. In many cases, these solutions have become global public goods that can be replicated in other countries in the region and the world,” said Valeria Di Fiori. “Unified leadership will improve our speed and make us a better partner for the government, the private sector, and ultimately for the people we serve.”
El Marco de Alianza del Grupo Banco Mundial con Uruguay para el periodo 2023-2027 prioritizes three areas: adapting the economy to climate change with greater fiscal resilience; improving employment opportunities; and providing inclusive access to quality public services.
Valeria Di Fiori brings over 15 years of experience in development, particularly in promoting private sector investment. She began her career at the World Bank in 2008 as an Investment Policy and Promotion consultant. In 2017, she joined IFC focusing on identifying new investment opportunities and developing relationships with stakeholders in Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Before joining WBG, she worked at think tanks in Buenos Aires and Washington, D.C. Ms. Di Fiori holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from University of San Andrés, Buenos Aires, and a Master's degree in International Politics from Georgetown University as a Fulbright scholar.
About the World Bank Group: The organization aims to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Operating in more than 100 countries, it provides financing, advice, and innovative solutions that improve lives by creating jobs, strengthening economic growth, and addressing urgent global development challenges. The World Bank Group consists of IBRD, IDA; IFC; MIGA; and ICSID.
For more information:
In Montevideo: Valeria Bolla - vbolla@worldbank.org
In Buenos Aires: James Gatica Matheson - jgaticamatheson@ifc.org