PM Checks Readiness for IMF-World Bank Meeting, Ensures Safety
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said Thailand is ready to host the IMF-World Bank annual meeting, urging agencies to ensure safety, convenience and avoid airport disruptions. With over 10,000 delegates from 191 countries expected, he stressed the event’s potential to attract investment and boost the nation’s global standing. Anutin will also travel to Singapore on October 7 for the Forbes Global CEO forum.
Anutin Charnvirakul chaired the National Preparatory Committee meeting at the Government House on October 5, 2026, to ready Thailand for hosting the IMF-World Bank annual meeting. He noted that with one week remaining, the country is prepared and determined to deliver a successful event that will bring substantial benefits, especially if the conference runs smoothly and achieves success in all areas. He said 191 countries have confirmed attendance, including heads of state, government leaders, ministers, and senior officials, totaling over 10,000 participants who will assess Thailand’s readiness. Many nations have pledged to invest in Thailand and cooperate in its development. Anutin stressed the need to finalize preparations across all fronts—protocol, security, facilitation, public health, communications, and overall management—to ensure Thailand’s role as host is seamless and maximizes benefits. He urged focus on urgent facilitation matters such as visas, immigration, and airline services, and asked the Airports of Thailand to fully prepare to avoid a repeat of recent baggage handling and flight cancellation problems, especially given the large number of participants using domestic flights. He also proposed special service channels to show the importance placed on attendees. The meeting is expected to boost economic value, increase investment, and enhance Thailand’s global image. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeaw said nearly 400 world leaders and prominent figures, mostly finance ministers and central bank governors, would attend, boosting confidence and highlighting Thailand’s economy. He added that the forum is part of ongoing engagements, including at the United Nations, offering Thailand a chance to shape its global direction. Sihasak confirmed that Anutin will travel to Singapore on October 7 to join the Forbes Global CEO forum, which will host 400 CEOs worldwide. When asked about potential impacts from flooding and airport management issues, Sihasak said preparations must be made but economic discussions should be kept separate.
