New Delhi/Manila, 24 February (HS): Masato Kanda took charge as the 11th President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Monday. He replaced Masatsugu Asakawa. With nearly 4 decades of experience in international finance and development policy, Kanda is widely known for his visionary leadership and his decisive interventions during market volatility.

Masato Kanda expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his predecessor Masatsugu Asakawa for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing development in the region. He said that under the responsibility entrusted to him by the ADB Board of Governors, he expressed his resolve to carry forward this strong legacy and achieve sustainable, inclusive and resilient development across Asia and the Pacific.

Kanda said, I am very proud to play the role of ADB President at this important moment for our region. He said, With the trust of our 69 members and the strong support of our dedicated staff, I am committed to advancing ADB’s mission to promote sustainable, inclusive, and resilient growth. Together we will address development challenges and ensure that ADB remains the partner of choice for the region.

I look forward to working with our trusted partners to deepen regional cooperation, mobilize private sector resources and advance climate action, and to turn our shared vision into concrete, impactful results with the support of ADB’s talented staff. I invite you to join me as I share insights and updates on our journey toward a brighter future for Asia and the Pacifiche added.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar