Business · Economy · 10 hrs ago
Saudi finance minister urges lower exposure to global economic risks
Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan called for reducing exposure to external risks to make economies more resilient.
He spoke at a meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors from the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan in Bangkok.
The meeting was part of the 2026 annual gatherings of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
Al-Jadaan said governments need to balance today’s crisis needs with future readiness by managing resources carefully.
He urged countries to diversify their economies and strengthen energy and food security, while improving supply chains and infrastructure.
He also said coordinated economic policies and preparation for artificial intelligence can support growth and productivity.
The annual meetings run until October 17, with participants discussing global economic conditions and development challenges.
Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan said economies should reduce their exposure to external risks to strengthen resilience.
He called for diversifying economies, strengthening energy and food security, improving supply chains and investing in resilient infrastructure.
Al-Jadaan said crisis management should address current needs while preserving resources and capacity for future shocks.
He also said readiness for artificial intelligence is part of a broader agenda to support economic growth and resilience.
The remarks came during the 2026 annual meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund in Bangkok.
- Who
- Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan.
- What
- He urged economies to reduce exposure to external risks and build resilience.
- When
- During the 2026 annual meetings of the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund, held from 12 to 17 October.
- Where
- Bangkok, Thailand.
- Why
- To strengthen economies’ ability to withstand shocks and respond to global changes.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund held their annual meetings in Bangkok.
Al-Jadaan spoke at a meeting of Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan finance ministers and central bank governors with the IMF managing director.
Al Eqtisadiah published its report on Al-Jadaan’s remarks.
- Speaker
- Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Jadaan
- Role
- Saudi finance minister
- Location
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Annual meetings
- 12–17 October 2026
- Key recommendation
- Reduce exposure to external risks
What people are saying
Strengthening economic resilience requires working to reduce levels of exposure to external risks
Readiness for artificial intelligence is no longer merely a technical matter, but has become part of a broader agenda aimed at stimulating economic growth and strengthening resilience