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ADB and NGOs Discuss Enhanced Cooperation

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) this week launched its new "ADB-Government-NGO Cooperation: A Framework for Action 2003-2005" through a workshop in Phnom Penh from 5 - 7 May 2003 involving NGO representatives and staff from the NGO Center at ADB Headquarters as well as the Cambodia Resident Mission.

The regional framework, which promotes enhanced trilateral cooperation among ADB, governments, and non-government organizations, was elaborated through a series of fourteen country, sub-regional, and regional workshops that involved more than 500 stakeholders. It sets precedent in that it was developed jointly by the representatives of NGOs, governments, private sector, and ADB. It, therefore, reflects a joint vision and recommendations for effective collaboration and partnerships. The Framework is available in English at www.adb.org/ngos or in Khmer at www.adb.org/carm.

The workshop in Phnom Penh reviewed the Framework's recommendations, and then developed specific proposals for increased ADB-Government-NGO cooperation in Cambodia. Such proposals focused on increased NGO involvement in ADB-sponsored development activities, capacity building for Cambodian NGOs, and expanded NGO-Government collaboration. Planned activities will be undertaken over the coming three years.

In opening the workshop, Urooj Malik, ADB Country Director, said "this new Framework will promote even greater NGO and civil society involvement in the design, implementation, and monitoring of ADB financed projects and programs in Cambodia".

The Phnom Penh workshop, held at the Sunway Hotel, also planned NGO involvement in the development of ADB's new Country Strategy and Program (CSP) in Cambodia for which preparations have also begun. Formulation of the CSP will be similarly undertaken through a wide-ranging consultative process. The CSP is expected to be completed by early 2004 and will guide the Asian Development Bank's support to Cambodia over the medium-term.