In 2003, ADB published its ICT strategy, Toward E-Development in Asia and the Pacific: A Strategic Approach for Information and Communication Technology. The Strategy’s three main goals are to: create an enabling environment through policy improvements, public institution strengthening, and relevant infrastructure provision; build human resources for ICT literacy and professional skills; and develop ICT applications and information content through ADB-supported projects and activities.

This aligns with ADB’s Strategy 2020 and Enhanced Poverty Reduction Strategy (2004), which emphasize the importance of investing in a well-planned ICT infrastructure and realigns development efforts towards the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals as well as the national poverty reduction strategies of individual countries.

The strategic use of ICT can facilitate effective and efficient delivery of public services in the key sectors of telecommunications, governance, education, health, and agriculture.