The Asian Development Bank (ADB) marked the 30th anniversary of its European Representative Office with a celebration at its Manila headquarters, highlighting decades of collaboration between Europe and ADB in advancing sustainable development across Asia and the Pacific. ADB President Masato Kanda emphasized that European partners have provided over $30 billion in financing, along with expertise and innovation, contributing to tangible improvements in the region while offering European companies access to Asia’s dynamic markets.
Since ADB’s founding in 1966, European members have contributed more than $18 billion in project cofinancing and nearly $2 billion in trust fund contributions, accounting for over 28% of total funding for the Asian Development Fund, which supports the poorest and most vulnerable communities in the region. European companies have also been central to delivering ADB projects across sectors such as energy, transport, water, and agriculture, securing over $15 billion in contracts to date. Opportunities for further engagement through ADB’s expanding operational pipeline were highlighted, including upcoming business opportunity roadshows across Europe in 2026.
The anniversary event brought together ADB Governors, senior officials from Finland and Germany, ambassadors, Board of Directors members, and development partners. The gathering underscored the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing complex challenges, promoting inclusive and resilient growth, and leveraging innovative financial tools to improve lives, build quality infrastructure, and protect the environment. ADB, founded in 1966 and owned by 69 members, including 50 from the Asia-Pacific region, continues to serve as a key platform for regional development and sustainable progress.
