Bangkok:Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda has reaffirmed the bank's ongoing commitment to Pakistan's development goals, particularly emphasizing the expedited processing of the ML-1 Railway Upgradation Project. This commitment was articulated during a meeting with Pakistan's Minister for Economic Affairs, Ahad Khan Cheema, held on the sidelines of the 2026 Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand.

According to Radio Pakistan, the discussions between Kanda and Cheema focused on Pakistan's development priorities and potential collaborations under the ADB Country Partnership Strategy for 2026-2030. Minister Cheema expressed appreciation for ADB's longstanding partnership with Pakistan and welcomed the approval of the new strategic framework, which aims to foster a more strategic and impactful partnership.

Minister Cheema highlighted the significance of private sector-led growth and urged ADB to expand its non-sovereign operations in Pakistan. He also called for a stronger on-ground presence by ADB to facilitate investment transactions and develop a robust pipeline of public-private partnership projects. Additionally, the minister acknowledged ADB's pivotal role in progressing the ML-1 Railway Upgradation Project, stressing the importance of completing the feasibility study and commencing the procurement process promptly.

Both parties expressed their determination to work closely to accelerate project implementation and achieve sustainable development outcomes for Pakistan.