Fiji is Ready to Host Big ADB Meeting
Asian Development Bank (ADB) Secretary Eugenue Zhukov has extended an advanced welcome to delegates of the 52nd Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors, which will be held in Nadi from May 2 to 5. ADB president Takehiko Nakao yesterday, conducted site inspections of Denarau and Natadola. These are sites that have been earmarked as the annual meeting venues.
The event will be an opportunity for delegates to discuss issues ranging from climate change and disaster resilience, to the promotion of healthy oceans and women entrepreneurs.
The theme for the annual meeting is “Prosperity through Unity”.
“The Asian Development Bank welcomes you to the 52nd Annual Meeting of the ADB Board of Governors,” said Mr Zhukov, in a video released by ADB.
“This year we are happy to bring the annual meeting for the first time to a developing member country in the Pacific Islands.
“Fiji-known to the world for its beautiful nature, wonderful people and vibrant economy opens its doors to share their island nation’s story of the progress and success.
“Last year we embarked on our Strategy 2030, to bring about a prosperous inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific.
“As poverty and equality remains a challenge for this fast-growing region, we developed a strategy to respond to these evolving needs by scaling up operations, strengthening finance, leveraging knowledge and partnerships.
“With this year’s annual meeting, ADB will showcase how it continuously strive to help build and shape a better future for Asia and the Pacific.
“We will discuss climate change and disaster resilience; the promotion of healthy oceans; women entrepreneurs; as well as renewables energy and other exciting issues of the day.
“We invite you join us as we move forward to create connection and partnerships for the future. “See you in Fiji in May!”
Mr Nakao is scheduled to meet the Prime Minister and Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Sugar Industry and Foreign Affairs, Voreqe Bainimarama, at the Office of the Prime Minister today.
A joint press conference with Mr Nakao and Alternate ADB Governor and the Reserve Bank of Fiji, Governor Ariff Ali will be held later today at the Central Bank’s conference room. Mr Nakao will leave Fiji tomorrow morning for Hong Kong.