IMF meetings close in Bangkok with resilience message and walkout

· Economy · Thailand · United States

More than 18,000 people gathered in Bangkok for a week of IMF and World Bank annual meetings, which closed with the chair of the International Monetary and Financial Committee saying the global economy remains resilient but warning that escalating conflicts and trade tensions could further disrupt critical trade routes. Delegates walked out of the steering committee meeting when a Russian official spoke, a sign of how Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues to roil the institution. IMF members called for more support for countries undertaking reforms and tackling debt vulnerabilities, while deepening talks with Iraq and Lebanon as demand for MENA support grows. Participants also flagged risks from 'advanced intelligence'.

Why it matters：The annual meetings set the tone for global rescue lending and reform expectations as debt stress, wars and new technology strain the multilateral system.

Key points

  • Delegates walked out when a Russian official addressed the steering committee.
  • The IMF is accelerating talks with Iraq and Lebanon on support.
  • Members called for aid to reforming countries and action on debt vulnerabilities.

Sources (original reporting)

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