Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul stated that the upcoming 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WBG) would make Thailand a focus of global attention, providing a unique opportunity for the country.

The Prime Minister on 11 May 2026 chaired a meeting of the national committee in preparation for the 2026 Annual Meetings of the IMF and the WBG Group, to be hosted by Thailand from 12 to 18 October at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.

The meeting acknowledged the theme "Thailand’s New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience" for the meetings. This theme reflects Thailand’s transition into a new horizon, in combination with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, advocated and developed by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great.

It also connects with international strategies through four major areas, namely (1) transformation brought on by the digital system and artificial intelligence, (2) challenges in the global economy and geopolitics, (3) climate change response, and (4) demographic changes. 

The Prime Minister pointed out that hosting the 2026 Annual Meetings would also offer a great opportunity for Thai people to show their potential and cultural identity to international visitors, as well as stimulating Thailand’s investment and tourism. This would generate more income for entrepreneurs in many sectors, such as hotel, restaurant, and transport services and various local businesses. The meetings promote sustainable development, as well, by adopting the concept of “green meetings.”

Thailand hosted the annual meetings of the IMF and the WBG once, in 1991. The 2026 Annual Meetings will mark the second time Thailand hosts these events. Thailand is only the third country outside of the United States to host this "Olympics of Finance" more than once, further showcasing the country’s capacity to organize world-class events.

It is expected that, during these meetings, Thailand will welcome more than 15,000 participants, comprising finance ministers, central bank governors, executives of financial institutions, academics, representatives of civil society, and members of the media. The main sessions will take place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, while another 1,000 related meetings and activities will also be held.

The meeting approved the appointments of three subcommittees to facilitate the meetings. They include the Subcommittee on Substantive Matters, the Subcommittee on Ceremonies, and the Subcommittee on Security, Traffic, and Public Health.