Asian Development Bank announces €65bn regional investment plan across Asia in World Economy News 08/05/2026 At its annual meeting in Samarkand, the Bank outlined a programme focused on cross-border energy and digital infrastructure. Almost €65 billion in planned regional investments, covering energy systems, digital infrastructure and cross-border connectivity across Asia and the Pacific, was announced by the Asian Development Bank, during its 59th Annual Meeting that took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The programme was presented alongside updated financing data and economic projections, as policymakers and financial institutions met to assess regional priorities. More than 4,000 delegates from over 100 countries attended the meeting, including finance ministers, central bank governors and representatives of the private sector. The forum, held under the theme “Crossroads of Development: Advancing a Connected Future,” focused on energy, digital access, supply chains and economic coordination in a period of slower growth and rising costs. Opening the meeting, ADB President Masato Kanda addressed the need for coordinated responses across the region. “The decisions we make at this new crossroads will secure the future for the next generation,” he said. “In this fragmented world, traditional and isolated development responses will fail. To survive and thrive in this new era, we must build deeply connected and resilient systems.” Investment in energy and digital infrastructure The €65 billion programme includes a €46 billion allocation for a Pan-Asia Power Grid, intended to connect renewable energy systems across borders and extend transmission capacity. According to the Bank, the project could link up to 20 gigawatts of renewable energy, expand transmission networks by 22,000 kilometres and provide energy access to around 200 million people by 2035. A further €18.2 billion is allocated to cross-border digital infrastructure, including broadband expansion and network development across participating economies. The Bank states that these investments are expected to reduce connectivity costs in remote and landlocked areas and increase access to energy and digital services. Annual financing and economic outlook During the meeting, ADB reported nearly €40 billion in support for the region in 2025, based on its latest financial data. Its Board of Governors approved financial statements that include a €1.34 billion net income allocation for reserves, concessional financing, technical assistance and disaster response. “Energy and digital access will define regional development,” said Kanda, referring to the role of infrastructure in shaping economic activity across Asia and the Pacific. ADB also presented updated economic projections. Growth in developing Asia is forecast at 4.7% in 2026, while inflation is projected to reach 5.2%, reflecting higher energy prices and ongoing geopolitical pressures. Cooperation agreements with Uzbekistan Uzbekistan is among the countries expanding cooperation with ADB through new agreements announced during the meeting. The Bank’s project portfolio in the country is approaching €15 billion, covering infrastructure, energy, agriculture and social development. Two agreements were signed, including a €92 million programme to modernise 200 schools through science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, and a €275 million initiative to expand financial inclusion. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev referred to the