ASIATODAY.ID, MANILA — The President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Masato Kanda, pledged stronger financial and advisory support for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as the regional bloc begins implementing its long-term roadmap, ASEAN Vision 2045.
Kanda delivered the commitment during the 32nd ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Retreat in Manila, on March 13, 2026 emphasizing ADB’s intention to deepen its role as a strategic financing and advisory partner for Southeast Asia.
“In an uncertain world, Southeast Asia is choosing economic integration and cooperation,” Kanda said.
“ADB is stepping up as the region’s premier financing and advisory partner to help build an integrated Southeast Asia that is resilient enough to withstand the challenges ahead.”
Three Pillars of Support
To translate ASEAN’s long-term ambitions into concrete action, ADB’s support will focus on three key pillars:
– Dedicated financing for sovereign and private-sector projects aligned with ASEAN priorities.
– Upstream project development to ensure regional initiatives are investment-ready.
– Stronger regional coordination, including advisory support for ASEAN sectoral bodies.
Preparing for Global Economic Headwinds
While ASEAN pursues deeper regional integration, global uncertainties remain a pressing concern. Ongoing geopolitical tensions—particularly conflicts in the Middle East—could trigger spillover effects across Asia, including rising energy prices and inflation.
During discussions with ASEAN economic ministers, Kanda noted that ADB stands ready to assist member states if such economic pressures intensify.
$10 Billion Commitment for ASEAN Power Grid
A flagship example of ADB’s long-term support is the ASEAN Power Grid, a major regional initiative aimed at strengthening cross-border electricity connectivity and accelerating the region’s energy transition.
ADB has indicated it is prepared to commit up to $10 billion over the next decade to support the development of this strategic infrastructure network.
Beyond energy connectivity, the bank is also advancing several regional initiatives designed to strengthen ASEAN’s future economic resilience, including:
– Artificial intelligence (AI) readiness across Southeast Asia
– Deeper regional capital markets
– Expansion of the blue economy
– Greater river and flood resilience to address climate risks
Through these initiatives, ADB aims to translate ASEAN’s long-term ambitions into scalable investments and practical implementation across the region.
Supporting ASEAN’s Economic Transformation
This week, ASEAN economic ministers gathered in Manila to assess the regional and global economic outlook while setting priorities for ASEAN’s economic agenda.
ADB also supported the ASEAN Business Environment Forum and launched a new report titled Advancing the Green Economy Transition in ASEAN, bringing together government and private-sector leaders to accelerate the region’s green transformation.
Founded in 1966, the Asian Development Bank is a leading multilateral development institution dedicated to supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific.
The bank is owned by 69 member economies, including 50 from the region, and works with governments and partners to finance infrastructure, foster innovation, and address complex development challenges. (AT Network)
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