Bangkok:The State of Qatar took part in a meeting involving Arab central bank governors and World Bank Group President Ajay Banga. This event was held alongside the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group in Bangkok, Thailand.
According to Qatar News Agency, Qatar was represented by HE Minister of Finance Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari. The meeting gathered ministers of finance, central bank governors, and heads of financial institutions to discuss crucial areas of cooperation.
HE Al Kuwari addressed the meeting, highlighting key areas for collaboration such as recovery and reconstruction, mobilization of private capital, enhanced regional connectivity, and human capital investment. He underscored the need for coordination between the World Bank, Gulf donors, and the Arab Coordination Group to support reconstruction efforts in Syria, Lebanon, and Gaza, ensuring that financing, grants, and guarantees work synergistically.
His Excellency also pointed out the significance of investing in artificial intelligence and digital skills to equip young people for future job opportunities. He welcomed the World Bank's initiatives to bolster AI readiness in the region and acknowledged the establishment of the Bank's hub in Riyadh, which offers opportunities for young Qataris to participate in secondments at the Bank.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of increasing the representation of Arab talent in the leadership positions within the Bank. The IMF and World Bank Group annual meetings in Bangkok, held from October 12 to 18, 2026, provide a platform for policymakers and financial leaders to discuss global economic developments and the international financial system.