ADB Marks 30 Years of European Partnership Driving Development Across Asia

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched celebrations at its headquarters in Manila to mark the 30th anniversary of its European Representative Office, highlighting three decades of deepening cooperation between Europe and ADB in advancing sustainable development across Asia and the Pacific.

ADB President Masato Kanda said Europe has been a long-standing and strategic partner in the bank's mission.

"Europe has partnered with ADB for decades, providing over $30 billion in financing, as well as innovation and expertise, delivering tangible results for people across Asia and the Pacific," Mr Kanda said."This prosperity flows both ways, as ADB is a gateway for European companies to connect with Asia's dynamic markets for mutual benefit."

Europe a Cornerstone Partner Since ADB's Founding

Since ADB was established in 1966, its European members have played a central role in supporting development outcomes across the region. Collectively, they have provided:

• More than $18 billion in project cofinancing

• Nearly $2 billion in trust fund contributions

• Over 28% of total funding for the Asian Development Fund, ADB's primary source of grants for the poorest and most vulnerable communities

ADB officials said this sustained support has been critical in advancing poverty reduction, climate resilience and inclusive growth.

European Companies Deliver Major Infrastructure Projects

European firms have also been key partners in implementing ADB-financed projects, particularly in sectors vital to sustainable development.

Since ADB's founding, European companies have secured more than $15 billion in contracts, delivering projects in:

• Energy

• Transport

• Water and sanitation

• Agriculture

ADB highlighted growing opportunities for European expertise and investment to engage with its expanding operational pipeline, particularly as demand rises for climate-resilient infrastructure and green technologies.

Business Opportunities Roadshows Planned for 2026

As part of the anniversary celebrations, ADB announced plans for a series of business opportunity roadshows across Europe in 2026, aimed at connecting European companies with upcoming ADB-funded projects and partnerships.

The roadshows will showcase how European firms can contribute to — and benefit from — Asia and the Pacific's rapidly growing development and infrastructure markets.

High-Level Participation Reflects Strong Political Support

The anniversary event was attended by senior government and development leaders, including:

• Pasi Hellman, Under-Secretary of State, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland

• Johann Saathoff, Parliamentary State Secretary, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of Germany

Ambassadors, ADB Board of Directors members and development partners were also present, underscoring Europe's continued political and financial commitment to ADB's work.

Looking Ahead

ADB said the 30th anniversary of its European Representative Office is both a celebration of past achievements and a platform to deepen cooperation in the years ahead, particularly in areas such as climate finance, sustainable infrastructure and private sector mobilisation.