BANGKOK, March 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Thai Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Thailand and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) today provided an update on preparations for the 2026 Annual Meetings of the IMF and the World Bank Group, which Thailand will host from October 12 to 18, 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC). The discussion included Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas; Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance; Mr. Vitai Ratanakorn, Governor of the Bank of Thailand; and Dr. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the IMF.
The authorities and the IMF were very pleased with the progress made in many areas, including construction, security and branding. Preparations are progressing well, supported by close coordination between all stakeholders. They praised the world-class facilities of the QSNCC, ready to host the meetings, and highlighted Bangkok’s role as a leading regional center for international conferences. The partnership between the IMF and the authorities has been excellent and will ensure fruitful and successful meetings. The 2026 annual meetings will mark the second time Thailand will host annual meetings at the QSNCC, following the 1991 meetings.
Dr Nitithanprapas says the selection of Thailand as host country once again represents a significant opportunity for the nation. “Hosting the 2026 Annual Meetings at the QSNCC, the venue built specifically to host the 1991 Annual Meetings, symbolizes not only the significant progress made by Thailand over the past 35 years, but also its continued role as a pillar of stability and a hub of global economic cooperation,” said Dr Nitithanprapas. “It is important to note that Thailand is only the third country outside of the United States to host this”Financial Olympics more than once, demonstrating Thailand’s ability to host world-class events.
One of Thailand’s key opportunities as a host is the ability to share its development experience and vision, driven by the quality of its population, the resilience of its economic and financial systems and the power of international cooperation under the theme “Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience”. This theme reflects Thailand’s transition to a new horizon, drawing lessons from more than 35 years of economic development. It also highlights the importance of people as the key to development, even in the face of rapid transformation brought about by artificial intelligence, with resilience in the face of multiple challenges ranging from geopolitics to climate change also essential for Thailand’s future. This transition model could serve as a showcase and be replicated in other countries in the region in the future.
Mr. Ratanakorn highlighted that the Annual Meetings take place at a time when the global economy faces multiple challenges that require long-term vision, innovation and international cooperation. “The Annual Meetings therefore serve as a platform for countries to exchange views and explore practical pathways towards sustainable, resilient and inclusive growth,” said Mr. Ratanakorn.
To lead Thailand towards the “New Horizons”, the Bank of Thailand promotes financial resilience through the “New Horizons”.Safe and Inclusive Digital Finance (SIDF) for Financial Well-being“This SIDF plan will be Thailand’s lasting contribution to the international community beyond its role as host,” he said. Mr. Ratanakorn also reaffirmed Thailand’s willingness to host the Annual Meetings. “We are committed to facilitating meetings in a smooth and well-coordinated manner, thereby contributing to achieving the outcomes envisioned by the IMF.”
Dr. Georgieva expressed deep appreciation for the strong partnership with the Thai authorities and the Thai people, praising the spirit of collaboration that has defined the preparations thus far. “I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Thailand and their exceptional teams for their professionalism, tireless dedication and kind hospitality,” said Dr Georgieva. “Our discussions this week not only fill me with confidence, but also with genuine enthusiasm. I look forward to returning to Thailand in October.”
Dr. Georgieva also highlighted the central role of Asia in shaping the global economic landscape. “In a world of great uncertainty, Asia is an engine of global growth,” she stressed. “We are inspired by the region’s remarkable achievements as we work together to build vibrant and resilient economies for the future. I look forward to welcoming our members to Thailand, where we will discuss pragmatic solutions to common challenges.”
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SOURCE The Ministry of Finance of Thailand; The Bank of Thailand; The International Monetary Fund
