GovWire

UK government statement:

The UK, a long-standing partner of the World Bank, has announced its support of Ajay Banga for World Bank Group President. Mr Banga brings decades of experience leading global organisations, and a strong track record in establishing private-public partnerships. He will bring energy to the World Bank Group as it steps up its effort to tackle global challenges from extreme poverty to climate change.

The Development Minister Andrew Mitchell and Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt met Mr Banga to discuss UK priorities for the World Bank and mobilising more resources, including from the private sector.

The UK has played a leading role in shaping the Bank since its inception, as the joint-fifth largest shareholder of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the third largest contributor to the International Development Association (IDA). The Bank will be a close partner in delivering the 3-pronged approach to international development set out by Andrew Mitchell.

Reflecting on Mr Bangas recent visits to Cte dIvoire and Kenya, both of whom have since endorsed his candidacy, as well as the recent support of India, Andrew Mitchell reiterated the importance of engaging with, listening to, and delivering for all the countries that borrow from the World Bank and for the worlds poorest people something that has always been a key priority of the UK.

With the publication of the UKs Women and Girls Strategy, Minister Mitchell expressed his hope that Mr Banga will be a proud advocate for gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, helping secure sexual and reproductive health and rights in developing countries.