IMF chief praises Thailand as IMF–World Bank host and invites delegates to explore and spend locally
Kristalina Georgieva encourages IMF–World Bank delegates to explore Thailand and spend locally as Ekniti thanks her for supporting the economy
- IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised Thailand as an excellent host for the IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings scheduled for October 2026.
- Georgieva encouraged international delegates attending the meetings to explore Thailand and spend money locally.
- Her invitation for delegates to travel and shop was intended to help stimulate and circulate money through the local Thai economy.
International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised Thailand as an excellent host of the IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings on October 15, 2026, and encouraged international delegates to explore the country and spend locally.
Georgieva made the remarks at the close of the session “Debate on the Global Economy: Forging Resilient and Dynamic Economies for the Future”.
Georgieva invites delegates to explore Thailand and spend locally
Georgieva invited participants from around the world who were already in Thailand for the meetings to spend time travelling and shopping, helping money circulate through the local economy.
Hosting the meetings gave international delegates an opportunity to experience Thailand and contribute to local economic activity alongside discussions on international economic and financial policy.
Ekniti calls for resilience and support for vulnerable people
Before Georgieva’s remarks, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas had closed the debate by calling for stable policies to help economies withstand shocks. Ekniti also stressed the need to support people, particularly vulnerable groups, so they could absorb the effects of change and adapt.
Ekniti identified high energy prices and interest rates, the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and geoeconomic fragmentation as challenges facing the global economy. Strengthening people’s capabilities was central to responding to the changing economic environment, Ekniti added.
Responding to Georgieva’s praise and invitation to delegates, Ekniti said: “Thank you very much, and thank you for helping to stimulate the Thai economy.”
