Bangkok:Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas has invited Thai citizens to co-host the upcoming 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings (AM2026), with nearly 20,000 participants expected to attend. This event will serve as a platform to showcase Thailand's role as a Trusted Connector, emphasizing the "Bangkok Blueprint," digital finance, and "Bangkok Dialogue" on an international stage.
According to Thai News Agency, Thailand is one of the few countries to host this prestigious event twice, aiming to encourage Thai participation and highlight the country's economic potential and cultural identity. Official registration has already reached approximately 16,000 participants, with the total expected to approach 20,000, including members from various sectors.
The conference will display Thailand's cultural heritage through community-based exhibits, featuring Thai silk and traditional knowledge in the conference hall decor. Thai cuisine will be promoted globally, and Thai children will welcome international financial leaders, aiming to inspire youth for future global roles. The conference will focus on three key themes navigating new global economic horizons amidst conflict, Thailand's role as a central hub and trusted connector, and building sustainability against economic and environmental challenges.
Two key initiatives will be advanced during the event the "Bangkok Blueprint," which aims to enhance access to digital finance for low-income and underserved groups, and the "Bangkok Dialogue," a comprehensive summary intended to guide long-term global economic strategies. Collaborations with the Bank of Thailand and the IMF will aim to bolster the security of digital finance.
In addition to economic discussions, the conference will address environmental issues and water management, sharing insights from Thailand's experiences with climate change and drought management. Exhibits will include the "Royal Pavilion," showcasing projects initiated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej and continued under His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, like the "Kaem Ling" (Monkey's Cheek) project, illustrating Thailand's water management strategies. The conference will also cover standards and guidelines for Data Center and AI infrastructure, reflecting recent IMF articles on the subject, ensuring investments are beneficial economically, socially, and environmentally.