ADB President Strengthens Partnership with Armenia, Honors 20 Years of Development Cooperation – EQ
In Short : ADB President reaffirmed the bank’s strong partnership with Armenia while celebrating 20 years of development cooperation. Discussions with Armenian leaders focused on advancing infrastructure, energy, and private sector projects. ADB highlighted its commitment to supporting Armenia’s green growth, resilience, and inclusive development, while emphasizing the role of strategic investments in shaping sustainable economic transformation for the nation.
In Detail : YEREVAN, ARMENIA — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda concluded a one-day visit to Armenia, meeting with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Finance Minister Vahe Hovhannisyan to reinforce the strong partnership between ADB and Armenia as the two honor 20 years of development cooperation in 2025.
“I am proud of our collective achievements, which have made a strong impact on Armenia’s development,” said Mr. Kanda. “ADB’s partnership with Armenia, marked by key investments in transport, urban infrastructure, and education has reached more than $2 billion in total lending and assistance.”
The visit also provided an opportunity for Mr. Kanda to meet personally with ADB Country Director Don Lambert. He praised Mr. Lambert’s exceptional service and dedication to Asia and the Pacific’s development with the awarding of a plaque.
During his meetings with government leaders, Mr. Kanda expressed ADB’s continued commitment to supporting Armenia’s long-term development through the upcoming Country Partnership Strategy (2026-2030). The strategy is expected to focus on private sector growth, governance, human capital development, and climate and disaster resilience.
The visit comes at a pivotal moment for regional cooperation and integration. Mr. Kanda emphasized ADB’s commitment in this area, noting that improved transport links and cross-border cooperation can unlock significant economic benefits for Armenia and its neighbors.
Mr. Kanda commended Armenia’s leadership in hosting COP 17 on Biodiversity in 2026, calling it a demonstration of the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship on the global stage. ADB is building a project pipeline that will serve as a powerful example of how development and conservation can work hand in hand, he added.
ADB’s partnership with Armenia has delivered tangible results for the country’s people, from the ongoing Seismic Safety Improvement Program that is reconstructing schools to the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program that has constructed critical transport links connecting Armenia with its neighbors.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.
