Anutin Charnvirakul highlights Thai food, culture and wellness opportunities at a Bangkok reception attended by IMF and World Bank leaders
- Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul played the saxophone for approximately 3,000 guests at a government reception in Bangkok on October 16.
- The event was held to welcome international financial leaders and delegates attending the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group, hosted by Thailand.
- The performance followed a speech where Anutin promoted Thailand’s economic opportunities through its food, culture, and hospitality.
- Attendees included high-profile figures such as IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and World Bank Group President Ajay Banga.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul played the saxophone at a government reception attended by about 3,000 guests in Bangkok on Friday (October 16), welcoming international financial leaders with music and a message about the economic opportunities offered by Thai food, culture and hospitality.
Government spokesman Ekkapob Pianpises said Anutin presided over the Thai Government Reception at 7pm at One Bangkok Forum in Pathum Wan district. The event was held as Thailand hosted the 2026 Annual Meetings of the Boards of Governors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group.
Guests included Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and World Bank Group President Ajay Banga, alongside ministers, senior executives, international delegates and representatives of the public and private sectors.
Anutin’s saxophone performance followed his speech and drew applause and cheers from the audience.
Anutin welcomes delegates back after 35 years
Anutin said Thailand was delighted to welcome participants back after last hosting the IMF–World Bank meetings 35 years ago. Although Thailand and the wider world had changed considerably, working together to build a better future for people remained essential, he said.
Anutin thanked delegates for several days of intensive meetings and discussions. The reception, he said, offered an opportunity to relax over food and music, enjoy one another’s company and experience Thailand’s warmth beyond the conference rooms.
Anutin links Thai food and traditions to economic opportunities
Anutin described Thai food as a connection between people and generations, as well as a and restaurant owners
Anutin said knowledge and traditions passed down through generations—including Thai cuisine, traditional healthcare and hospitality—could provide a foundation for new opportunities in healthcare, wellness and the longevity economy.
Anutin also highlighted the contribution of young people whose ideas and creativity were helping develop Thai cuisine, design, art and other industries, making the country’s identity more accessible to audiences around the world.
Thailand aims to combine its cultural heritage and creativity with new technology to create future opportunities, Anutin said, inviting international partners to take part.
Anutin calls for partnerships that outlast the meetings
Anutin said the IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings brought together people from different countries and backgrounds to exchange perspectives. Despite the changes Thailand and the world had experienced, cooperation remained central to improving people’s futures.
Anutin expressed hope that participants would leave with useful outcomes from their discussions and positive memories of Thailand and its people. The friendships and stronger partnerships developed during the meetings should continue after delegates returned home, he said.
Anutin concluded his remarks by inviting guests to raise a toast to friendship, partnership and the success of their work together, before giving his saxophone performance.
