Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu, June 23:

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has expressed its commitment to support Nepal’s development and poverty reduction efforts at this critical time for the country. “ADB remains committed to supporting Nepal’s development and poverty reduction efforts at this critical time for the country,” said Kunio Senga, director general of ADB’s South Asia Department.

Senga was speaking at the conclusion of the three-day long official visit yesterday. He arrived in Kathmandu last Monday. Senga held high-level consultations with the government senior officials to discuss issues relating to ADB’s operations in Nepal. He emphasised the need to stay the course on reforms and to continue development activities effectively. “Broad-based development aimed at reducing poverty, social exclusion, and regional disparities can be a powerful impetus for peace,” Senga was quoted as saying in a press release issued by ADB Mission in Kathmandu, today.

During his visit, Senga met with vice-chairmen of the council of ministers, Dr Tulsi Giri and Kirti Nidhi Bista, Dr Shankar Sharma, vice-chairman of the National Planning Commission, chief secretary Dr Bimal Koirala, finance secretary Bhanu Prasad Acharya and other senior government officials. He also met representatives of key development partners in Nepal. ADB is dedicated to reducing poverty in the Asia and Pacific region through pro-poor sustainable economic growth, social development, and good governance. Established in 1966, it is owned by 63 members, with 45 from the region. In 2004, it approved loans and technical assistance worth $5.3 billion and $196.6 million, respectively.