The Kuwait Banking Association hosted a reception for Kuwaiti banks in Bangkok on Friday evening, alongside the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group. The event brought together senior officials, policymakers and leaders from Kuwait’s banking and financial sector, as well as regional and international institutions.
The reception was held under the patronage and in the presence of Central Bank of Kuwait Governor Basel Al-Haroun, with the participation of Finance Minister Dr. Yaqoub Al-Rifai and Kuwait’s Ambassador to Thailand, Dr. Meshaal Al-Mansour. Governors of Arab central banks, chairpersons of Kuwaiti banks, senior executives and prominent international economic and investment figures also attended.
Kuwait Banking Association Chairman Hamad Al-Marzouq, who also chairs Kuwait Finance House Group, said participation in the international meetings offered an important opportunity to explore partnerships, discuss global economic and financial developments, and highlight the strength, financial soundness and adaptability of Kuwait’s banking sector.
He pointed to its progress in financial technology and sustainable growth, supported by prudent Central Bank supervision and strong international credit assessments. He added that Kuwait Finance House’s presence reflected its standing as a global Islamic banking group operating in 10 countries.
Issam Al-Sager, Vice Chairman of the association and Vice Chairman and CEO of National Bank of Kuwait Group, said the reception provided a platform for networking with global financial leaders, exchanging views on market challenges and developing new partnerships. He highlighted the local banking sector’s stability, liquidity and solvency, saying international engagement would strengthen competitiveness, attract investment and support sustainable economic growth.
Commercial Bank of Kuwait Chairman Sheikh Ahmed Al-Duaij said the meetings offered opportunities to strengthen the bank’s international correspondent relationships and discuss economic developments, digital financial technology and cybersecurity. He emphasized the bank’s continued commitment to digital transformation and the delivery of innovative, secure and sustainable financial solutions.
National Bank of Kuwait Group Deputy CEO Abdullah Al-Sumait stressed the importance of international dialogue and cooperation amid rapid changes in the global economy. He said engagement with major banks and financial institutions helps Kuwaiti lenders exchange expertise, identify common opportunities and strengthen their capacity to support sustainable growth and long-term prosperity.
Raed Boukhamsin, Vice Chairman and CEO of Kuwait International Bank, described the international forum as an important opportunity to strengthen relationships with global financial institutions and exchange views on the future of banking. He noted that discussions on economic growth, financing and emerging opportunities were essential to maintaining the sector’s relevance and expanding its international presence.
Burgan Bank Vice Chairman Faisal Mansour Sarkhouh said the bank’s participation reflected its commitment to international financial dialogue and expanding its network of global relationships. He added that such engagement allows Kuwaiti banks to contribute to discussions shaping the future of the industry while showcasing the strength and standing of Kuwait’s financial sector.
Boubyan Bank Group Vice Chairman and CEO Adel Al-Majed said the annual meetings provided an opportunity to monitor economic and financial developments, exchange expertise and learn from international institutions in developing proactive strategies. Boubyan Bank board member Mai Al-Mudhaf added that the reception would help strengthen cooperation, build partnerships and highlight the capabilities of Kuwaiti banks, supporting Kuwait’s ambitions to consolidate its position as a regional financial centre.
Kuwait Banking Association Secretary-General Sheikha Al-Essa said the sector rests on a strong institutional foundation and remains capable of adapting to rapid changes in the global financial industry. She reaffirmed the association’s commitment to coordinating the collective efforts of Kuwaiti banks and expanding international cooperation, adding that the sector’s liquidity and capital levels comfortably exceed regulatory requirements, underpinning financial stability and its continued ability to meet the national economy’s financing needs.
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