ADB urges inclusive, sustainable digital transformation in Asia amid launch of 2025 policy report

Developing Asia is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, presenting significant opportunities to promote inclusive and sustainable development. However, digital transformation can also exacerbate inequality and compromise environmental sustainability if not managed well. The Asian Development Bank has released the Asian Development Policy Report 2025: Harnessing Digital Transformation for Good. At the media briefing on Central and West Asia, held on the margins of ADB annual meeting, the heads of relevant departments have commented on integration of these transformations in the region. 

Although developing Asia and the Pacific has outpaced other regions in digital development in recent decades, the benefits haven’t been shared equally. The Asian Development Policy report highlights key policy recommendations to harness digital transformation as a catalyst for accelerating inclusive and sustainable progress across the region. The report recommends that governments in developing Asia and the Pacific adopt national digital strategies that integrate inclusion and sustainability objectives, and enact locally tailored policies that promote these objectives. Governments should also engage with the private sector, civil society organizations, and local and international communities.

The media briefing also included a presentation on the Caspian Green Energy corridor that connects Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to establish a green energy corridor linking Central Asi, South Caucasus and Europe. The corridor facilitates renewable energy exports and enhances regional power exchange. In addition, it strengthens energy security and optimizes energy distribution among participating countries. The relevant MOU on this project was signed in May 2024. In April of this year, ADB, AIIB and three ministries of energy of connecting countries have signed an MOU on support for feasibility study.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet.