The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Thursday raised its 2010 growth forecast for the world economy to 3.1 percent from 2.5 percent, saying the global recession "is ending."

In its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO), IMF predicted that the global economy would grow by 3.1 percent in 2010, 0.6 percent higher than its prediction in July.

The global recession "is ending," but the pace of recovery is slow and activity remains far below pre-crisis levels, said the report.

According to the report, advanced economies would grow by 1.3 percent and emerging economies' real GDP growth would reach 5.1 percent in 2010.

Advanced economies are projected to expand sluggishly through much of 2010, with unemployment continuing to rise until later in the year. Annual growth in 2010 is projected to be about 1.3 percent, following a contraction of 3.4 percent in 2009, the report said.

In emerging economies, real GDP growth is estimated to reach almost 5.1 percent in 2010, up from 1.7 percent in 2009, said the report, adding that the rebound is driven by China, India and a number of other Asian economies.

The WEO presents the IMF staff's analysis and projections of economic developments at the global level in major country groups which were classified by region, stage of development and so on, as well as in many individual countries. It focuses on major economic policy issues, and analysis of economic development and prospect.

(Xinhua News Agency October 1, 2009)