SUVA, FIJI (12 November 2023) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masatsugu Asakawa met today with Fiji Minister of Finance and ADB Governor Biman Prasad to discuss Fiji’s development needs and emerging priorities for ADB assistance.
ADB is preparing its country partnership strategy (CPS) for Fiji, 2024–2028, which will support Fiji’s efforts to invest in more climate-resilient infrastructure and make critical reforms to boost the efficiency and sustainability of public services.
“ADB’s flagship investments in climate-resilient transport infrastructure including roads, bridges, and ports, along with upgrades to water supply and sanitation are set to continue,” Mr. Asakawa said. “At the same time, ADB will seek to expand support for communities vulnerable to rising sea levels through nature-based coastal protection and blue economy initiatives while continuing to advance gender equality and social protection.”
In recognition of the importance of the private sector for sustainable growth, ADB will help advance state-owned enterprise reforms, encourage economic diversification and a business-friendly environment, and directly support private investments where necessary.
Mr. Asakawa, who is on a 3-day visit to Fiji marking 53 years of partnership with ADB, will also meet Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Rogoibuli Gavoka; Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya; and Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau.
Mr. Asakawa will lead a roundtable meeting with key partners in the Asian Development Fund (ADF), which makes vital contribution to building resilience and sustainability in ADB’s poorest and most vulnerable developing member countries.
ADB has committed 118 public sector loans, grants, and technical assistance totaling $989.2 million to Fiji since 1970 when it joined as an ADB member. Cumulative loan and grant disbursements total $895.4 million.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
