What is the main goal of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)?

The main goal of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is to promote international monetary cooperation. The IMF seeks to facilitate stable exchange rates and a balanced system of international payments, which helps foster economic growth and financial stability across its member countries. By providing a platform for dialogue, analysis, and policy advice, the IMF encourages countries to work together to maintain international financial stability.

The other choices do touch upon functions related to the IMF, but they do not encapsulate its primary objective. Although the IMF does provide loans to countries, especially in financial distress, this is a means to achieve the broader goal of international monetary cooperation rather than the primary purpose itself. Establishing trade tariffs is not within the IMF's purview, as its focus is on macroeconomic stability rather than trade policy. Managing state finances, while important, is specific to individual countries and is not the overarching objective of the IMF as an international organization. Therefore, promoting international monetary cooperation accurately reflects the core mission of the IMF.