Many of ADB's developing countries face serious environmental concerns. Such development challenges are complex and interlinked, calling for effective collaboration among countries. ADB is uniquely positioned to act as a knowledge broker and play an active role in creating this synergy. This panel discussion showcased ADB’s work in this area and the evidence-based knowledge accumulated by evaluation at ADB.

Facilitating private investment into frontier markets, including fragile environments, requires a customized approach to the distinct development challenges in these economies. The plenary focused on the role of ADB and other multilateral development banks in mobilizing more private investment into development, particularly for frontier markets.

The session explored links between climate change, disaster risk, and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across Asia and the Pacific. It identified promising and complementary approaches to promoting climate resilience and addressing SGBV in contexts affected by climate change and climate-related disasters.

The CNBC Debate explored how developing nations, some of which have enjoyed solid economic growth since the global financial crisis, can maintain stability and momentum. Will global tensions over trade, uncertainty over Brexit, and potential slowdowns in developed nations influence Asia’s growth potential? Or can the region seize new opportunities created by indigenous innovation, rapid technological change, and growing inter- and intra-regional foreign direct investment?

This seminar discussed how international trade can promote inclusive growth and empowerment, and generate decent employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for women. 

The United States sponsored and hosted a discussion highlighting key new initiatives and the need for sustainable infrastructure and appropriate financing. A panel of representatives from across Asia and the Pacific outlined both new tools they have developed and views on what is missing from the international “toolkit.”

This unified sport interactive activity will showcase the true spirit of inclusion and allow diverse stakeholders to engage in and understand the challenges and unique abilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Interact with Special Olympics athletes and staff to delve deeper into how projects can be designed to be more inclusive.

The ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) aims to promote sustainability of project outcomes by protecting the environment and people from projects' potential adverse impacts where possible, and helping borrowers to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks. The panel explored issues on the ground in relation to effective implementation of ADB’s SPS. 

Asia’s policy makers face the challenge of guiding the expansion of tourism in a way that protects the environment—particularly ocean health—and improves the quality of life of local residents. A distinguished panel reflected on their experiences to highlight policy options to ensure a sustainable future for Asia’s tourism.

This seminar examined the role of clean, affordable, and abundant hydrogen and its impact on democratizing energy for all. The seminar explored the contours of the emerging hydrogen economy and its myriad benefits to society and the environment. It looked into specific solutions that use hydrogen and how they can be deployed by governments and industry in ADB’s developing member countries. 

This seminar offered an analysis of ways the global and local capital markets can support infrastructure development through long-term funding, with an emphasis on channeling Asian savings toward sustainable, climate-resilient projects.

Scenes from the Business Session on 4 May 2019 at the 52nd ADB Annual Meeting in Nadi, Fiji.