The Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) has decided to start a new special project combining research and capacity building activities focused on Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar and Viet Nam (CLMV countries). The CLMV project stems from the ASEAN 2030 study, which revealed the presence of a substantial gap in economic growth and development between the CLMV countries and other ASEAN members. The ASEAN 2030 study also recognized the urgent need to conduct policy-oriented research and capacity building programs in CLMV countries to help them follow an inclusive and sustainable development process. The CLMV project is also meant to support the ASEAN Framework for Equitable Economic Development, endorsed by ASEAN leaders at the 19th ASEAN Summit in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2011, which prioritizes narrowing the development gap between the CLMV countries and the rest of ASEAN members in implementing the third stage of the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint.

Read more.