ADB reaffirms support for Pakistan, vows to fast-track ML-1 project
— October 15, 2026BANGKOK (AIA) Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to Pakistan’s development priorities and pledged to fast-track its institutional processes for the ML-1 railway project.
He gave the assurance during a meeting with Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema on the sidelines of the ADB’s 2026 Annual Meetings in Bangkok, Thailand, today.
The two sides discussed Pakistan’s development priorities and ways to strengthen cooperation under the ADB Country Partnership Strategy 2026-2030.
Cheema welcomed the approval of the strategy, describing it as an important framework for a more focused, results-driven partnership. He also appreciated the ADB’s longstanding support for Pakistan.
Highlighting the importance of private sector-led growth, the minister called for expanding the bank’s non-sovereign operations in Pakistan. He also stressed the need for a stronger permanent presence on the ground to facilitate investment transactions and build a robust pipeline of public-private partnership projects.
Cheema acknowledged the ADB’s leading role in advancing the ML-1 Railway Upgradation Project. He stressed the need to complete the feasibility study promptly and begin the procurement process for the flagship initiative.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working closely together to accelerate project implementation and deliver sustainable development outcomes for Pakistan.
