Minister of Finance and Treasury Rexson Ramofafia says Solomon Islands’ participation in the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group (WBG) provides an opportunity to advance discussions on the country’s development priorities.

These include building a resilient economy, improving essential infrastructure and public services, strengthening climate and disaster resilience, and enhancing public financial management and accountability.

Minister Ramofafia is leading the Solomon Islands delegation to the annual meetings, which run from 12 to 18 October in Bangkok, Thailand.

“The meetings will also provide an opportunity to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can drive economic growth, improve productivity, create jobs and expand inclusive and sustainable development,” he said.

Ramofafia said the delegation would engage development partners on approaches tailored to Solomon Islands’ circumstances, including its geographical dispersion, exposure to external shocks and vulnerability to natural disasters.

He said the delegation’s participation reflected the GREAT Coalition Government’s commitment to working with development partners to advance national priorities and the country’s development agenda.

Ramofafia’s delegation includes senior officials from the Ministry of Finance and Treasury, the Prime Minister’s Office, the Central Bank of Solomon Islands and other banking institutions.

The annual meetings bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, development partners, multilateral development banks and non-governmental organisations to discuss global economic stability, sustainable development and financial resilience.

The meetings also provide member countries with opportunities to raise development concerns, discuss policy priorities and strengthen partnerships through bilateral talks and side events.

An estimated 1,500 participants are expected to attend this year’s gathering.