The IMF still sees Asia Pacific as the main econmic driver for the world.

That's according to its latest outlook on the region on Thursday. The international lender says Asia Pacific's GDP will grow 5.4% in 2016 and 5.3% in 2017. The momentum comes from firm demand in Asian countries and strong Asian stock markets' performances.

The IMF says low rates and fiscal stimulus among some Asian countries also contributed to the growth. For regional economic powerhouse China, the IMF expects a 6.6 % gain in GDP for this year and 6.2 percent growth in 2017.