Asian Development Bank (ADB) Country Director Werner E Liepach has said that the bank was keen to work closely with the Pakistani government in its efforts to regenerate the economy. The ADB, he said, was ready to extend technical, advisory and financial support to the government in translating its plans and concepts into financially viable projects and their efficient execution. Werner, who called on Federal Minister for Finance Senator Ishaq Dar, hoped that the government would increase its share in projects. The ADB could thus assist in participating in a larger number of varied projects. Werner said the ADB was also keen to work with Pakistan as a development partner. He informed the Finance Minister that Klaus Gerhaensser, director general West-Asia Department of ADB, would be visiting Pakistan next week to interact with the government. The visit is aimed at understanding the policies and plans of the government so that the ADB can prioritise its projects and programmes in line with the requirements of the government. He also briefed the finance minister on his recent meetings with the provincial governments and Execution Agencies to review the progress of ongoing projects as well as assessing their future requirements. Dar said the government was presently working on various initiatives to jump start the economy and looked forward to ADB’s assistance in the construction of Diamer Basha Dam. Werner said the ADB supported the project and was willing to work with the government of Pakistan in putting up a workable model for the implementation of the project. Werner said the ADB was ready to work with international financial institutions and the Pakistani government on energy, transport and infrastructure projects.
