Thailand Affirms Readiness to Host IMF-WBG Meetings

BANGKOK, Oct 8 (TNA) - Thailand's Finance Ministry has expressed confidence in its readiness to host the 2026 IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings, following concerns raised by foreign media regarding the flooding situation in Bangkok.

Vinit Visessuvanapoom, head of the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), stated that officials remain confident in the situation. While acknowledging that some areas in Bangkok still experience flooding, he emphasized that the meeting venue at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, 21 designated hotels, and the routes from the airport to the venue remain clear of floodwaters. Emergency and evacuation plans have been put in place alongside 24-hour monitoring. He added that the Prime Minister has instructed Team Thailand agencies to work closely together to prevent and address potential issues and ensure the safety of meeting participants.

The Meteorological Department forecasted weather variability, thunderstorms, and strong winds on Oct. 10–11, with rainfall estimated at 30–50 millimeters and short periods of heavy rain. Rain is expected to decrease during Oct. 12–16 to levels.

A senior official from Bangkok's drainage department stated that the meeting venue area is equipped with pumping stations capable of draining water directly into the Saen Saep canal if flooding occurs around the event location.

Preparations have included cleaning drainage tunnels and dredging main drainage pipes in key areas, alongside establishing designated surveillance hotspots. Rapid-deployment mobile units will closely monitor the situation whenever rain falls. -819 (TNA)