The government spokesperson pointed out that the IMF–World Bank 2026 forum demonstrated that "Thai Standards" can successfully deliver a world-class event, emphasizing the credit belongs to all Thai people and the opportunity to build on this reputation for economic, investment, tourism, and international event prospects.
On 19 October 2026, Mr. Aekaphop Pianphiset, spokesman for the Office of the Prime Minister, spoke about the conclusion of the IMF–World Bank Group 2026 annual meeting, saying what Thailand clearly demonstrated throughout the past week was the country's capacity to handle highly complex global responsibilities.
The meeting, held from 12–18 October 2026 in Bangkok, gathered representatives from 191 countries, including finance ministers, central bank governors, private sector leaders, academics, and civil society. Both the IMF and World Bank expressed gratitude to the Thai working team and all supporting sectors for the successful conference.
Mr. Aekaphop said the praise Thailand received as host reflects the country's readiness in infrastructure, security, transportation, technology, services, protocols, and culture, showing the ability to collaborate across agencies under unified standards.
“What the government sees from this event is not just that we successfully organized a major conference, but that Thailand has proven when all parties work together toward a common goal, we can handle global tasks at high standards. This is a valuable national asset beyond a single event,” said Mr. Aekaphop.
He added that the credit for this success belongs to the many officials and workers involved, including security, public health, transportation, airports, conference centers, service providers, businesses, and citizens who acted as hosts, allowing visitors worldwide to experience Thailand firsthand.
“The praise we received does not belong to any government or agency alone but to all workers and people who helped present Thailand in the best light to guests from around the world — professionalism, kindness, and Thai identity — all of which build the country's credibility,” said Mr. Aekaphop.
The spokesman noted another clear point is that Thai culture was not merely a ceremonial element but helped create lasting impressions through Thai textiles, food, handicrafts, music, and hospitality. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva also mentioned her admiration for Thai silk during the closing ceremony.
Therefore, the government views the standards established as a foundation to further develop Thailand as a destination for international meetings, investments, and quality tourism, since many attendees are policymakers, financial institution leaders, and business executives from around the world.
“We should not wait for large events to show our capabilities. Thailand has proven it can do this. The standards we used to welcome the world last week should be the standards we apply in the country's ongoing work to turn the confidence gained into new opportunities for Thailand’s economy,” Mr. Aekaphop said.