Thailand is preparing to host the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok from October 12 through 18. Reuters reports that more than 15,000 participants from 191 countries are expected, including central bank governors, economic policymakers and business leaders.
How Bangkok is preparing
To ease traffic, government offices in Bangkok will work remotely on October 12, 14 and 15. October 13 is already a public holiday, while October 16 has been declared a special government and bank holiday. Private companies and state enterprises have been asked to consider suitable arrangements.
Authorities have tightened security at the central Bangkok venue and 21 official hotels. About 500 Tourist Police officers will cover the venue, delegate hotels and tourist attractions through patrols, undercover deployments, drones and motorcade escorts coordinated with about 39 embassies.
Thailand's Finance Ministry estimates participant spending could generate 1.05 billion to 2.25 billion baht for the economy. It also says more than 320 electric vehicles will serve participants to reduce emissions.
What the meetings will cover
The IMF's overview says the meetings bring together central bankers, finance and development ministers, business executives, civil society, think tanks and academics. Discussions will include the world economic outlook, financial stability, poverty reduction, inclusive growth and job creation.
The World Bank's public program includes sessions on private investment, artificial intelligence and development, small-business finance, jobs and civil-society priorities. Public events will be streamed online.
Thailand last hosted the Annual Meetings in 1991. The institutions usually meet in Washington for two consecutive years and in another member country every third year.
