Zambia has congratulated Thailand, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group on the successful hosting of the 2026 Annual Meetings in Bangkok, with Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane highlighting opportunities to strengthen partnerships and advance the country’s development priorities.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Government and the Zambian delegation, Dr. Musokotwane praised Thailand’s hospitality and organisation, alongside the leadership of the two international financial institutions.
He commended Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas; IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva; and World Bank Group President Ajay Banga for their contributions to the gathering.
The meetings provided Zambia with an opportunity to engage partners on development financing, debt sustainability, economic stability, private investment and job creation, the minister said.
“We leave Bangkok encouraged by the spirit of cooperation and renewed commitment to translating international dialogue into practical development outcomes that improve the lives of our citizens,” Dr. Musokotwane said.
He described Thailand’s hosting as a demonstration of its capacity to bring countries together in an atmosphere of friendship, mutual respect and constructive engagement. Beyond the conference facilities and arrangements, he praised the warmth of the Thai people, their culture and the welcome extended to visiting delegations.
Dr. Musokotwane also thanked the Zambian delegation for its professionalism, teamwork and contributions to the country’s engagements.
He acknowledged Secretary to the Treasury Felix Nkulukusa; Bank of Zambia Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya; Zambia Revenue Authority Commissioner General Dingani Banda; Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Arnold Simwaba; and Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Hapenga Kabeta.
He further recognised Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor for Operations Dr. Francis Chipimo and Zambia’s Ambassador to Malaysia, accredited to Thailand, Morecome Mumba, alongside supporting officials and diplomatic personnel.
The minister said the delegation’s collective expertise and commitment had helped advance Zambia’s interests and strengthen engagement with international financial institutions, development partners and prospective investors.
“The true legacy of these meetings will be measured not only by the quality of the discussions, but also by the strength of the partnerships forged and the tangible benefits they will deliver to people across the world,” he said.
He concluded by expressing Zambia’s appreciation to Thailand, the IMF, the World Bank Group and all those involved in organising the meetings.
Source: Statement from Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, Minister of Finance and National Planning.
Photo: © Ministry of Finance and National Planning, #mofnp, Lusaka-Zambia.
