Manila, March 18 (AseanAll) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda met with Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay at ADB’s Manila headquarters on March 18, 2026. The meeting reaffirmed the strong development partnership between ADB and Bhutan, with both leaders underscoring their commitment to sustainable growth, food systems transformation, and the country’s long-term development vision.
“Bhutan is a living example of what it means to put nature at the heart of development,” said Mr. Kanda. “As we work together to build more resilient and sustainable food systems across Asia and the Pacific, Bhutan’s experience offers invaluable lessons for the entire region.”
Mr. Kanda commended Bhutan’s strong economic performance, noting an estimated 8.5% growth in 2025, and welcomed the government’s progress on tax and fiscal reforms. ADB is committed to providing $1 billion in financing to Bhutan from 2024 to 2028, supporting climate-resilient infrastructure, trade, public finance, and human development.
Mr. Tobgay also addressed the Eminent Speakers’ Forum during ADB’s Asia and the Pacific Food Systems Forum 2026. As a carbon-negative country whose mountain ecosystems are a vital source of water for the broader region, Bhutan brings unique and important perspectives on economic development in harmony with natural resource conservation. Mr. Kanda noted ADB’s ongoing support for Bhutan’s farmers and food systems, helping communities become more resilient to climate impacts and environmental shocks.
Looking ahead, both leaders discussed Bhutan’s 10X National Economic Vision, an ambitious plan to grow the economy tenfold by 2050 by expanding the private sector and developing new industries such as digital and wellness.
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.
