by Daniel MayenSouth Sudan Delegation Meets IMF African Department Director in Bangkok
Daniel Mareng Wek Magok, Bangkok,
Bangkok, Thailand, October 13, 2026- – A South Sudan delegation led by Caretaker Minister of Finance and Planning Hon. Athian Diing Athian, accompanied by Bank of South Sudan Governor Hon. Dr. Addis Ababa Othow, met with Mr. Zeine Zeidane, Director of the African Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
During the meeting, Minister Athian briefed IMF officials on the government’s economic reforms, the impact of climate shocks on economic growth, and the political situation, particularly preparations for the upcoming December elections.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with international
financial institutions to support the country’s development priorities.
“We are committed to continuing our engagement with the IMF and World Bank to ensure that we achieve our goals and align our programmes with the aspirations of our people,” Minister Athian said.
Mr. Zeidane reaffirmed the IMF’s commitment to supporting South Sudan and encouraged the government to strengthen fiscal and governance policies.
“I encourage you to continue strengthening fiscal and governance policies. I am happy to hear that you are improving in different areas,” he said.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Group Annual Meetings in Bangkok, running from October 12 to 18, 2026.
Attendees included Costas Christou, Deputy Director of the IMF’s African Department; Melesse Minale Tasha, Assistant Director; Hon. Benjamin Ayali Koyongwa, Undersecretary for Planning at the Ministry of Finance and Planning; and other senior officials from the ministry and the Bank of South Sudan.