Bangkok:Thailand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, expressed satisfaction with Thailand's successful hosting of the IMF-WBG 2026 meeting, highlighting the global recognition received for its monetary policy and fiscal discipline.
According to Thai News Agency, the World Bank commended Thailand's innovative use of the AI tool "Whispering Bird" to support small and medium-sized enterprises. This AI technology assists businesses in operations and accessing credit systems through banks like Krung Thai Bank and the Government Savings Bank. The initiative was a focal point at the Small AI, Better Jobs forum.
The Managing Director of the IMF thanked Thailand for its role as host and noted that the teachings of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX, would guide future operations. His portrait was prominently displayed in the Plenary Hall, symbolizing a focus on improving the quality of life for citizens.
The IMF highlighted Thailand's commitment to fiscal discipline as a model, contrasting it with Western countries experiencing higher interest rates and bond yields due to less stringent fiscal policies. Thailand's 10-year government bond yield remains comparatively low at 2.3-2.4%, indicating strong economic confidence.
Thailand aims to boost economic growth through strategic investment and AI development, aligning with IMF and World Bank recommendations to enhance workforce skills and create domestic jobs. The country is positioned as a leader in global AI investment, with efforts focused on attracting further foreign investment.
In discussions with Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, Thailand received praise for its successful anti-scam initiatives, notably the Connect the Dots project, which enhances cooperation among government agencies to combat online fraud. This collaboration has led to the Bangkok Blueprint, a global initiative against online threats, developed with the IMF and World Bank.