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Word Bank President Jim Yong Kim on Wednesday in Abidjan said the next meeting of the International Development Association (IDA) would be held in Abidjan, from November 12 to 15.
Speaking to newsmen after a visit to Ivorian agro-industries in Port-Bouey, Abidjan, Kim said the IDA was the World Bank’s fund that catered for poor countries by providing loans without interests.
According to him: ``We are going to have one of the most important meetings of the World Bank soon.
``It is the meeting where we talk about funds for the poorest countries and we will have it right here in Abidjan and it is the first time that this meeting will be taking place in Africa.’’
Kim, who left Cote d’Ivoire for South Africa after the inspection, said he was impressed with the economic recovery of Cote d’Ivoire after a prolonged political crisis.
The World Bank president said the use of violence in the country would only create setbacks for development.
`` I came here to listen and we have had wonderful meetings where I learnt a great deal. I learnt a great detail about the conflict that the country has endured and I am leaving with a sense of optimism.
``In my meeting with the young people I learnt that they need training and they need jobs. More importantly, one ex- combatant said they need training and jobs to turn their backs on conflict.
``I have a message for Cote d’Ivoire and that is we must commit to turn our backs on conflict. ‘’
Kim said women must also be given central roles in the development of the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the World Bank president was shown round training centers for ex-combatants and agro allied industries during his visit.
