Masato Kanda

ADB projects 4.7% growth for developing Asia in 2025—a slight downgrade driven by weaker global demand, property stress in the PRC, and rising trade fragmentation. Southeast Asia sees the sharpest revision. To stay on course, countries must adopt sound economic policies, sustain…

In Central Lombok, I saw how clean energy and community leadership are improving lives. At the Sengkol Solar Farm, solar power is helping farmers and women entrepreneurs grow new businesses—from cassava chips to greenhouse produce sold to local hotels. I also met Ibu Ratna,…

Wrapping up a meaningful mission to Timor-Leste, marked by strong partnerships and a shared vision for inclusive growth. Watch this short video to see highlights from the visit: ow.ly/lt7Z50WsoFp

Countries that innovate are countries that thrive. ASEAN’s future depends on science and innovation to build modern energy, resilient food systems, and cities where people flourish. At the 9th STS Forum ASEAN–Japan Conference, I shared how @ADB_HQ is acting now: ・$10B over…

This week in Lombok, Indonesia, I saw how @ADB_HQ projects are delivering impact—supporting people, boosting the economy, and strengthening food security. Watch the recap video.

Strong partnerships are built on trust and shared purpose. I'm in Indonesia, ADB’s sixth-largest shareholder, at a time of bold ambition—8% GDP growth by 2029 and high-income status by 2045. Over the next few days, I’ll meet senior leaders and visit project sites that highlight…

From peacebuilding to regional integration, President Ramos-Horta has led across eras. It was an honor to meet the Nobel Peace Laureate in Dili as Timor-Leste prepares to join ASEAN. I reaffirmed ADB’s strong support for this journey—one we’ve walked together since 2012. We…

In Timor-Leste’s coffee-growing communities, I met farmers like Fernando and Angelica who proudly shared how new techniques are boosting yields, incomes, and food security. Beyond short-term gains, they see this as an investment in their future—for their families, communities,…

Grateful to our Timor-Leste country team for your dedication and professionalism. As the country moves toward ASEAN membership, your deep local knowledge, agility, and commitment continue to make @ADB_HQ a trusted partner. Your work builds trust, advances partnerships, and…

Strong partnerships and strategic financing lay the path to a resilient future. It was a pleasure to reconnect with Minister Santina Cardoso after our first meeting at ADB’s Annual Meeting in Milan. I appreciated her steady leadership during the Government of Timor-Leste’s…

Strategic partnerships are strengthening regional connectivity in Timor-Leste. Together with representatives from the Governments of Timor-Leste, Australia, and Japan, I visited the expansion site of the Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport. The upgraded runway and…

Regional integration is not just about trade or infrastructure. It’s about changing lives and expanding opportunity. I’m pleased to begin my first visit to Timor-Leste at a pivotal time as the country prepares to join ASEAN in 2025. Over the next few days, I’ll meet national…

Young people hold the key to Asia and the Pacific's future. On this 10th #WorldYouthSkillsDay, I am constantly inspired by the potential I see in young people across the region, where they are embracing critical subjects like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics…

It was a pleasure to welcome Naotoshi Okada, Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of Nikkei, to @ADB_HQ. Nikkei’s commitment to “better insights for a better world” resonates strongly with ADB’s focus on delivering knowledge and financing that improve lives and strengthen…

Indonesia’s health transformation is bold, inclusive, and backed by strong leadership. It was a pleasure to welcome Health Minister @BudiGSadikin to @ADB_HQ. We explored ways to advance our growing partnership in the health sector, including primary care transformation, hospital…