The programmes held from September 12 to 20 next year are expected to generate some S$40 million for the local economy and "show the strengths and ability of the local economy and people," Singapore 2006 co-chair for planning committee, Mr Goh Chye Boon said
The event also aims to bring the focus back to Asia after the 1997 financial crisis and show the developments and reforms that have taken place.
Apart from being a financial event, Singapore 2006 will showcase hospitality events including the ASEAN food festival, organised tours to ASEAN countries and the inaugural visual arts biennale offering top local, regional and international acts.
The cost of organising Singapore 2006 is estimated at US$60-80 million. The government is seeking private sector participation with a S$25 million partnership target.
Top leaders to converge for Singapore 2006
ABOUT 16,000 industry leaders and delegates from 184 countries are expected to converge for Singapore 2006 when the city state hosts the Annual Meetings of the Boards of Governors of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group and a series of international business meetings, seminars, and forums.