Tariye Gbadegesin has reaffirmed the importance of regional collaboration and private-sector investment in advancing Asia’s energy transition during the recent Annual Meetings of the Asian Development Bank held in Samarkand.

Speaking after her first visit to the historic Uzbek city, Gbadegesin described the gathering as an important platform for engaging with government officials, development finance leaders, and business executives from across Asia and beyond.

The CEO noted that the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) maintains a $1.6 billion partnership with the Asian Development Bank, with approximately one-third of the funding directed toward projects designed to mobilize private-sector participation in climate and energy initiatives.

As part of the meetings, Gbadegesin joined ADB President Masato Kanda in discussions with chief executives from across the region and delivered a keynote address focused on financing Asia’s energy transition.

She emphasized the strategic role of the Asian Development Bank in supporting large-scale regional energy cooperation, including initiatives such as the ASEAN Power Grid aimed at improving cross-border electricity connectivity.

Gbadegesin also held bilateral discussions with Jusipbek Kazbekov on Uzbekistan’s plans to diversify and strengthen its energy supply. She noted that Uzbekistan’s selection for CIF’s new Industry Decarbonization Program reflects the country’s growing commitment to sustainable industrial development.

Additional engagements during the meetings included conversations with Panapasi Nelesoni and Joven Z. Balbosa on climate resilience and sustainable development priorities.

Gbadegesin also participated in discussions on watershed protection, resilient food systems, and agricultural innovation with several international experts and development leaders, including Ismahane Elouafi.

The CIF CEO concluded by commending ADB officials and organizers for hosting what she described as a highly impactful week focused on climate finance, energy transition, and sustainable economic growth across the region.