On June 11, 2014, US Ambassador Robert M. Orr delivered remarks at the International Law Institute (ILI) in Washington, DC on U.S. engagement with Asia through the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This special event was co-sponsored by ILI and ADB’s North American Regional Office.
The Asia-Pacific region is home to over half the world’s population and is the fastest growing region in the world. But while much of Asia is experiencing robust economic growth, the region faces key development challenges, including rapid urban population growth, large pockets of poverty, food insecurity, environmental degradation, corruption and fragile institutions of governance.
The ADB is playing a critical role in efforts to address these challenges. The United States has contributed more than $25 billion in overall capital subscription to the ADB since joining in 1966. During his recent visit to Asia, President Barack Obama expressed support for “broader and more inclusive development and prosperity” in the Asia Pacific. U.S. development policy in Asia has focused on a range of issues including: health, education, infrastructure, rule of law, good governance and expanding trade and investment opportunities.