ADB support for subregional cooperation at Southeast Asia Leaders' Summits

PSNews - Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Mr. Takehiko Nakao today reaffirmed ADB’s support for two subregional development initiatives—the Indonesia–Malaysia–Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT–GT) and the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia–Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP–EAGA).

The subregions’ economies continue to show resilience in the face of rising global trade tensions, with robust domestic demand helping to sustain growth, and policymakers well positioned to deal with any potential volatility. The two subregional initiatives constitute important building blocks for the Association for Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“I would like to commend IMT–GT and BIMP–EAGA countries on their significant economic cooperation in recent decades, as Southeast Asia has become more resilient, inclusive, sustainable, and economically competitive,” Mr. Nakao said. “ADB is committed to continuing its support for these subregional programs as a financier, honest broker, provider of knowledge, and a facilitator in leveraging public and private resources for regional investments.”

From left to right: ASEAN Secretary General Mr. Lim Jock Hoi; Malaysian Prime Minister Mr. Mahathir Mohamad; Indonesian President Mr. Joko Widodo; Thai Prime Minister Mr. Prayut Chan-o-cha; and ADB President Mr. Takehiko Nakao.
From left to right: ASEAN Secretary General Mr. Lim Jock Hoi; Malaysian Prime Minister Mr. Mahathir Mohamad; Indonesian President Mr. Joko Widodo; Thai Prime Minister Mr. Prayut Chan-o-cha; and ADB President Mr. Takehiko Nakao.

ADB has served as regional development partner to IMT–GT, which started in 1993, and regional development advisor to BIMP–EAGA, which started in 1994. ADB provides financial and technical assistance to both programs.

Mr. Nakao attended the 12th IMT–GT Leaders’ Summit with Indonesian President Mr. Joko Widodo, Malaysian Prime Minister Mr. Mahathir Mohamad, and Thai Prime Minister Mr. Prayut Chan-o-cha.

ADB’s collaboration with IMT–GT includes support for integrated green urban transport plans, the promotion of economic corridors, and various initiatives that foster transport and trade links. IMT–GT has 41 physical connectivity projects for 2017–2021 valued at $47 billion.

“The IMT–GT initiative has delivered remarkable gains including improved connectivity, stronger institutional networks, and enhanced government capacities,” Mr. Nakao said.

Mr. Nakao also attended the 13th BIMP–EAGA Leaders’ Summit with the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Mr. Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Mr. Widodo, Mr. Mahathir, and Philippine President Mr. Rodrigo Duterte. The program is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

BIMP–EAGA has supported the expansion of transport networks and cross-border energy projects, and initiatives that contribute to more vibrant trade. BIMP–EAGA has 69 priority infrastructure projects for 2017–2025 valued at more than $22.5 billion. ADB support includes loans for the upgrading of North Kalimantan, Indonesia’s power system and the enhancement of key road networks in Mindanao, Philippines.

“Our enduring partnership with BIMP–EAGA has been productive and has substantially contributed to advancing prosperity in the subregion,” said Mr. Nakao.

PSNews

Other News

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

More than a year after the Politburo's Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development came into effect, expectations now extend beyond increasing the number of enterprises. The goal is to build a stronger business community with greater resilience, larger ambitions and the capacity to compete in global supply chains.

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam is expected to remain one of ASEAN’s fastest-growing economies in 2026, supported by resilient exports, strong investment inflows and an ambitious reform agenda, despite mounting global uncertainties, according to the World Bank’s latest Vietnam Economic Update released on May 15.

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Under a new circular, the exchange of greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits is conducted on the domestic carbon credit exchange through the carbon trading system, which is interconnected with the national registration system.

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

For biofuels, particularly E10, to develop successfully, stronger and more coordinated policies are needed, especially pricing mechanisms capable of creating a sufficiently attractive gap between E10 and mineral-based petrol, an expert has said.

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

The 12th Africa Forum for Investment & Commerce (AFIC 12) opened in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, on May 9, drawing around 2,000 participants, including officials, economists, businesses, financial and development organizagtions from 43 African countries and international partners, including Vietnam.

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

The exhibition, which runs until May 9 at the Hanoi International Centre for Exhibition, showcases advanced products and technologies across a range of fields, including pharmaceuticals, drug manufacturing machinery and equipment, medical devices, hospital and clinic services and dental equipment.

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Leading the charge in this massive building spree is the new central city square in the core of the Thu Thiem new urban area. Spanning more than 20 ha, it’s the crown jewel of the Central Square and new administrative center complex.

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

The country’s stable political and economic environment provides a critical foundation for long-term sourcing strategies. At the same time, Vietnam has demonstrated a strong ability to scale up manufacturing, supported by a continuously expanding industrial base capable of meeting both high-volume demand and increasingly complex technical and quality requirements.

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

The update by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to its Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) on April 10, officially setting out import conditions for Vietnamese pomelos, is regarded as a major milestone in market access efforts.

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

The circular economy is no longer just a policy choice. It has become an inevitable trend for delivering sustainable and green growth, sharpening competitiveness at home and abroad, and meeting Vietnam’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. It is now a prerequisite to sustain long-term economic expansion, particularly in industrial production and supporting industries.

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Vietnamese fresh produce and processed foods are increasingly recognised for their quality, with items such as cashew nuts, coffee and spices gaining popularity among Middle East consumers. In 2025, Vietnam’s farm produce exports to the UAE exceeded 445 million USD, up nearly 24% year-on-year.