Ottawa, October 9 (AseanAll) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda concluded a visit to Canada this week, meeting with government leaders and business representatives to deepen collaboration on private sector engagement, energy security, and supply chain resilience.
"Canada has been a trusted partner of ADB for more than half a century, and this visit reinforced our shared commitment to creating opportunities for sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific," said Mr. Kanda. "From the ASEAN Power Grid to critical minerals development, we discussed concrete pathways where Canadian expertise and capital can deliver lasting impact in the region while creating economic opportunities at home."
In Ottawa, Mr. Kanda met with Canadia's Secretary of State for International Development Randeep Sarai.
He also participated in an Armchair Discussion moderated by Deputy Minister Christopher MacLennan at Global Affairs Canada, where he discussed ADB's efforts to mobilize private capital and strengthen regional integration.
In Toronto, Mr. Kanda met with Alison Nankivell, President and CEO of Export Development Canada, to explore new avenues for Canadian trade and investment in Asia and the Pacific. The discussions focused on clean technology, sustainable infrastructure, and critical minerals, which are sectors where Canada has recognized global leadership.
Mr. Kanda also joined a roundtable luncheon with Canadian business leaders hosted by Gowling WLG. The meeting focused on how ADB can help Canadian firms navigate growing business opportunities across Asia and the Pacific.
The visit underscored the alignment between ADB's priorities and Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy, particularly in strengthening economic resilience, advancing climate action, and promoting gender equality. With Asia's infrastructure needs estimated at $1.7 trillion annually, Mr. Kanda discussed opportunities for Canadian pension funds, institutional investors, and banks to finance sustainable infrastructure and clean energy projects across the region alongside ADB guarantees, blended finance, and risk-sharing mechanisms.
Canada has been a founding member of ADB since 1966 and has contributed more than $516 million to ADB trust funds, including $267 million to the Canadian Climate and Nature Fund for the Private Sector in Asia. These contributions have mobilized private investment, advanced climate action, and promoted gender equality across Asia and the Pacific.
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. ADB's headquarters is located in Mandaluyong City, Metro Manila, Philippines.