WASHINGTON, February 25, 2021—Today, World Bank Group President David Malpass met with Daniele Franco, Italian Minister of Economy and Finance in the new government under Prime Minister Mario Draghi’s leadership. During the call, the President congratulated Minister Franco on his recent appointment and reaffirmed the Bank Group’s commitment to collaboration throughout Italy’s G20 Presidency, the Venice Climate Summit, and COP26, with President Malpass expressing support for Italy’s leadership on climate change and other priorities. President Malpass emphasized the importance of addressing inequality and the issues vulnerable countries face as they work toward a green, inclusive, and resilient recovery from COVID-19. President Malpass highlighted the Bank Group’s work toward fair, broad, and fast access to effective and safe vaccines in developing countries.
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s G20 meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, President Malpass and Minister Franco discussed the importance of debt resolution and transparency as key G20 priorities and a successful IDA20 replenishment. President Malpass also looks forward to discussing the importance of cheap, fast, and secure digital transactions as part of financial inclusion within the G20 agenda.
