UAE continues to support global financial stability, international cooperation: CBUAE Governor

Khaled Mohamed Balama, the Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE and the UAE's representative at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), spoke about the country's commitment to global financial stability. Addressing the 2026 Annual Meetings of the IMF and World Bank Group in Bangkok, Balama highlighted the UAE's banking sector's strong financial indicators, high liquidity, and substantial capital reserves. These factors underscore the UAE's resilience and pivotal role in maintaining regional financial stability.

During the event, Balama emphasized the UAE's dedication to implementing flexible monetary and prudential policies. These policies are designed to be adaptable to evolving conditions while maintaining the robustness of its domestic financial system. He outlined key priorities, including strengthening regulatory and supervisory frameworks to bolster banks' resilience against market volatility and shocks.

Enhancing asset and risk management, boosting competitiveness, and promoting sustainable financing of the real economy were also highlighted as critical areas of focus.

Balama noted that the UAE continues to solidify its position as a leading global financial center. This achievement is underpinned by a banking and financial sector that adheres to international best practices in supervision, governance, and risk management. He stressed the importance of accelerating digital transformation and fostering financial innovation through the development of modern financial technologies and digital infrastructure.

Balama also underscored the criticality of safeguarding the financial system against cyber and technological risks, advocating for responsible, secure, and sustainable innovation.

The UAE's involvement in the annual IMF and World Bank meetings underscores the country's forward-thinking leadership and growing influence in global financial and economic discussions. Balama stated that these meetings offer a platform to enhance cooperation with central banks and international financial institutions. They provide opportunities to share expertise and align policies to tackle cross-border economic challenges and promote sustainable global growth.

Balama also stressed the necessity of closer policy coordination with international partners and active engagement in multilateral discussions and initiatives aimed at addressing cross-border crises effectively and sustaining economic expansion.