Countries and Regions

	Table of Contents
p. 5 of 19 BACK | NEXT I. Country Performance Assessment A. Economic Performance Assessment B. Poverty Assessment C. Assessment of Socio-Environmental Performance D. Governance: Sound Development Management E. Implementation Assessment II. Country Operational Strategy III. Sector Strategies IV. Regional Cooperation V. Donor Activities and Aid Coordination VI. Cofinancing and Catalyzing External Resources VII. ADB’s Operational Program VIII. Economic and Sector Work Program IX. Local Cost Financing

Country Assistance Plans - Cook Islands : I. Country Performance Assessment

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D. Governance: Sound Development Management

14. The Government has remained committed to the aims of the Economic Restructuring Program. In its 2000/01 budget policy statement, the Government indicated that it would strengthen governance by: (a) maintaining transparency, accountability, and an efficient and effective public service; (b) continuing a process of reform, which calls for high standards of conduct and integrity among leaders of Government, and provides strength to institutions that uphold the public interest; (c) reforming the budget process to strengthen the link between policy and action, and to demonstrate more decisive leadership, commitment to action and accountability; (d) developing a customer-focused work force, which supports a management philosophy, based on communication and responsiveness to needs; and (e) responding to local businesses to ensure they receive the support and feedback they need in dealing with Government. In line with these aims, the Government has requested specific ADB technical assistance for an updated economic report (which will help to establish the specific reform agenda for the medium term), for a study of reforms in the area of pensions and insurance (as these have important social and fiscal implications), and for the introduction of performance management in selected front line services of Government. These initiatives form part of the pipeline of assistance discussed below.

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