Bangkok:Thailand is set to host the 2026 IMF-World Bank meetings, with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas spearheading the country's participation. He will attend four major global forums and engage in 30 bilateral meetings with key international financial figures, aiming to create economic opportunities and reinforce Thailand's position as a vital connector in the global community.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekniti's role includes taking part in a panel discussion on October 13, 2026, at the 'Thai MOF Flagship Event Building Resilience in a Fragmented World.' This event, organized by Thailand's Ministry of Finance, will feature prominent figures like Kristalina Georgieva of the IMF and Ajay Banga of the World Bank. The forum will focus on strategies for building economic resilience amid global uncertainties.
Later on the same day, Mr. Ekniti will join another significant forum, 'IMF APD Thailand Special Seminar Bangkok 1991-2026,' to discuss Thailand's economic progress since hosting its first IMF-World Bank meeting in 1991. This seminar will gather economists to explore ways to advance Thailand's economy into the new industrial era.
On October 15, 2026, Mr. Ekniti will participate in the 'IMF Flagship Global Debate,' discussing major global economic issues such as public debt and technological disruptions. This session will include discussions with influential figures, including Kristalina Georgieva and other international leaders.
Concluding his participation, Mr. Ekniti will deliver remarks at the 'Bangkok Dialogue Notes' on October 17, 2026. This event aims to highlight the key messages Thailand has communicated during the conference and push for continued policy work to enhance Thailand's role globally.
In addition to these forums, Mr. Ekniti's schedule includes 30 bilateral meetings with international economic leaders, focusing on strengthening cooperation, exchanging crisis management strategies, and exploring investment opportunities. These efforts are intended to build sustainable global economic connections for Thailand.