A delegation of parliamentarians from the Legislative Assembly of Tonga attended the 2025 Global Parliamentary Forum on the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C., held from April 22-23.

This year’s forum addressed topics such as slow economic growth, rising national debt, and increased global uncertainty, with a focus on the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the future of work and sustainable development.

The Tongan delegation was led by Deputy Speaker Lord Tu’iha’angana and included Members of Parliament People's Representative for Vava'u 15, Hon. Dr. Viliami Latu, and People's Representative for Tongatapu 6, Hon. Dulcie Tei. The Legislative Assembly office stated that their attendance reflects Tonga’s commitment to global dialogue on economic development and international cooperation.

Jointly organized by the Parliamentary Network on the World Bank and IMF (PN), the World Bank Group (WBG), and the IMF, the Global Parliamentary Forum (GPF) brings together around 200 legislators from various countries for direct engagement with senior leadership of the World Bank and IMF, as well as global development experts.

A key highlight of the Forum is a townhall discussion with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga and IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, providing parliamentarians an opportunity to ask questions and exchange views on development issues.

Held annually, the Spring Meetings of the IMF and WBG serve as a platform for discussions among finance ministers, central bank governors, development professionals, private sector leaders, civil society organizations, and parliamentarians. These meetings include sessions of the Development Committee (DC) and the International Monetary and Financial Committee (IMFC), which advise the Boards of Governors of both institutions.

The forum emphasizes the role of parliamentarians in shaping policies that drive economic resilience, inclusive growth, and multilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Hon. Dr ‘Aisake Eke as Minister of Finance is also leading a government delegation to the Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank Group.