MANILA, PHILIPPINES (26 March 2020) — Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masatsugu Asakawa and the Department for International Development (DFID) of the United Kingdom (UK) Secretary of State Anne-Marie Trevelyan agreed today to further strengthen their collaboration in combating the global threat posed by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
In a call with Ms. Trevelyan, Mr. Asakawa provided an update on ADB’s operational response to COVID-19 and future plans.
Mr. Asakawa said, “while these are unprecedented times for the entire world, by working together in close coordination and collaboration, we will be able to get the situation under control sooner and to respond to the urgent needs of developing member countries in Asia and the Pacific.”
Mr. Asakawa requested UK support as ADB proceeds with planned adjustments to existing policies to respond effectively and quickly to the crisis. He also assured that ADB is working in close coordination with its membership and other international organizations.
On 18 March, ADB announced an initial package of about $6.5 billion to address the immediate needs of its developing member countries as they respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. ADB stands ready to provide further financial assistance and policy advice down the road whenever the situation warrants. Visit ADB’s website to learn more about our ongoing response.
ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.
