IMF and American University in Cairo Conclude First Economic Research Conference for MENA Region: Steering Macroeconomic and Structural Policies Amid Changing Global Economy

Cairo, June 4, 2025 – Following two days of high-level discussions and expert analyses, the first annual IMF economic research conference for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) concluded with a strong call for adopting evidence-based integrated policies to address pressing economic challenges facing the region. Organized by the IMF in collaboration with the American University in Cairo (AUC) from May 18-19, 2025, the conference served as a pivotal platform for developing research tailored to the MENA region’s economic realities. It brought together policymakers, academics, government officials, and thinkers to bridge global economic discussions with the region’s actual challenges. This unprecedented partnership between the IMF and a leading regional university reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the link between academic research and policy development.
Jihad Azour, Director of the IMF’s Middle East and Central Asia Department, highlighted the complexities facing MENA policymakers amid global trade tensions, regional conflicts, and climate change risks. He advocated for creating a regional dialogue platform connecting MENA with world-class research centers to provide reliable analyses and innovative policy responses. Azour expressed gratitude to AUC President Ahmed Dallal for supporting dialogue, research, and innovation in regional policies.
AUC President Dr. Ahmed Dallal emphasized the conference’s role as a vital platform fostering collaboration between governments, academic institutions, and the private sector. He stated, “The goal is to formulate globally informed ideas deeply rooted in our region’s reality.” This multilateral partnership aligns with AUC’s mission of promoting research, education, and open dialogue as drivers of stability, resilience, and inclusive growth.
Under the theme “Steering Macroeconomic and Structural Policies Amid a Changing Global Economy,” discussions focused on four key issues shaping the MENA region and the global economy: fiscal policy, monetary policy, industrial policy, and green transformation alongside artificial intelligence. Experts stressed the need for institutional reforms, cross-border cooperation, and sustainable investments in skills and innovation.
The conference gathered prominent academics, economists, government officials, and international organization representatives, including Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, and UN Special Envoy for Financing the 2030 Agenda, Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin.
Nigel Clarke, IMF Deputy Managing Director, concluded by stating, “This conference marks a milestone in the IMF’s commitment to deepening collaboration with academic and research communities, ensuring our support for member countries is responsive, analytically robust, and locally relevant.” Through such multilateral dialogue, the IMF aims to better address the region’s most urgent challenges.
— new from (AUC)

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