Dean and CEO of the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI) Dr. Tetsushi Sonobe, along with Dr. Yuki Higuchi, Associate Professor, Sophia University, Tokyo, paid a courtesy call on APO Secretary-General Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata to exchange views on the current situation related to COVID-19 and productivity initiatives. Senior officers of the Secretariat joined the discussion on potential areas for collaboration.

During the meeting, Dr. Sonobe pointed out that COVID-19 had affected developing countries more severely than developed ones. The ADBI was eager to listen to and assist developing countries as demand was high and supply chains were struggling due to rising inflation, making it difficult for borrowers to pay back loans. He emphasized the need to improve productivity levels in developing economies.

It was concluded that the APO and ADBI would explore areas for mutual cooperation in their continuing endeavors to increase productivity post-COVID-19.

APO Secretary-General Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata (L) and ADBI Dean and CEO Dr. Tetsushi Sonobe.