Samarkand: The 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors commenced in Samarkand today, co-organized by the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The event, which runs until May 6, gathers heads of financial institutions, ministers of economy, business representatives, and international experts under the theme 'Crossroads of Progress: Advancing the Region's Connected Future.' Over 3,000 delegates from nearly 70 ADB member countries, including central bank governors, senior government officials, and private-sector representatives, are participating.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the meeting's agenda covers a wide range of critical areas of sustainable development and regional integration. The focus will be on developing digital infrastructure, mobilizing financing for the energy transition, ensuring food security, and strengthening multilateral cooperation. The agenda also includes business sessions and thematic seminars on economic resilience and the development of global supply chains.
Around 90 events are planned as part of the meeting, concentrating on green transformation, digitalization, and investment. Meetings of finance ministers from the ASEAN+3 format, Saudi Arabia, and other sub-regional groupings will also take place. Special emphasis will be given to the ADB Private Sector Day, which aims to enhance partnerships with the business community.
Hosting such a significant event in Samarkand highlights Uzbekistan's emerging role as an international platform for dialogue, joint decision-making, and the promotion of sustainable economic development. This marks the second time the country has hosted the ADB Annual Meeting.
The Asian Development Bank Annual Meeting is a crucial platform for discussing current challenges and development prospects in the Asia-Pacific region. It traditionally draws thousands of participants, including representatives of governments, international organizations, civil society, and the media.
The Asian Development Bank remains one of Uzbekistan's major development partners. Over the past five years, the bank has provided more than $5.4 billion in financing for projects in Uzbekistan. In cooperation with the government and other partners, ADB supports the transition to a green economy, promotes private-sector development, and stimulates investment in human capital.
