Prime Minister Anutin chaired a meeting to prepare Thailand as the host of the IMF-World Bank conference, describing it as a significant mission comparable to the Olympics of global finance and economics, hoping it will create opportunities to attract funds into the country.
On 11 May 2026 at the Government House, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul chaired a national committee meeting to prepare for the annual meeting of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Prime Minister said that Thailand hosting the annual meeting of the World Bank Group and IMF this October is a vital mission akin to the Olympics of global finance and economics. It is expected to draw 15,000 participants from 200 member countries worldwide, including leaders and senior policymakers such as finance ministers, central bank governors, financial institution representatives, executives, and officials. This makes it an important global forum for discussing international economic and financial issues.
Thailand being selected as the host for this meeting is a positive sign and proof that the international community still places confidence in Thailand within the global financial sphere. Therefore, cooperation and unity from all relevant sectors are essential for the successful organization of this event.
"The World Bank meeting gathers all the world's financial holders here in our country, so it is crucial to maximize the opportunities to channel those funds into Thailand. This is a highly important international conference attended by key figures from each country. Many attendees hold dual roles as heads of state and finance ministers. Even if they attend as ministers, they also have the status of national leaders. We must provide them with warm hospitality, facilitate their needs, and ensure their security throughout their stay in Thailand. Some are even heads of state, so cooperation from security agencies, police, military, and local administration is necessary," said the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister added that Thailand previously hosted a similar conference in 1991, 35 years ago. He recalled recently graduating and witnessing Thailand's progress in elevating its status. Since then, Thailand has become more open in global finance, including stock markets, capital markets, and securities issuance. These developments followed the first World Bank meeting, helping Thailand's financial markets to advance to their current level.
This event will be held under the theme "Thailand's New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience," embracing the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, which is highly valued and internationally recognized. Thailand will gain new opportunities from this.
