Bhutan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) deepened their long-standing development partnership this week with a three-day official visit by ADB President Masato Kanda. The visit, from September 23 to 25, centered on advancing Bhutan’s economic integration, infrastructure development, and climate resilience.
Strengthening Partnerships
President Kanda met with Bhutanese leaders to discuss future cooperation across key sectors, reaffirming ADB’s commitment to Bhutan’s national development vision. Talks highlighted the importance of transport connectivity, renewable energy, health, education, finance, and water resource management in driving Bhutan’s sustainable growth.
Major Agreements Signed
Two milestone agreements were finalized during the visit:
- Climate Resilient Omchhu River Basin Project — This initiative will fortify Bhutan’s ability to manage climate-related risks by investing in flood embankments, riverbank protection, and landslide mitigation measures.
- Project Readiness Financing for National Highway Expansion (Lhamoizingkha-Sarpang) — This financing package will support the preparatory groundwork for expanding the highway, paving the way for climate-adaptive and future-proof transport infrastructure.
Broader Areas of Collaboration
Beyond these flagship projects, discussions also explored opportunities in hydropower and renewable energy — critical drivers of Bhutan’s export economy — as well as investments to bolster social sectors like health and education. By promoting inclusive and climate-conscious growth, both sides emphasized the shared goal of ensuring prosperity while safeguarding Bhutan’s natural environment.
A Trusted Partner in Development
Since establishing ties with Bhutan, ADB has administered more than USD 1.3 billion in loans, grants, and technical assistance. Its investments have played a pivotal role in modernizing Bhutan’s transport and energy sectors, while supporting reforms that foster sustainable economic opportunities.
President Kanda’s visit not only underscored ADB’s enduring partnership with Bhutan but also signaled a renewed commitment to supporting the nation’s aspirations for greener, more resilient, and inclusive development.
