The Bank of the Lao published an update on its delegation's participation in the 29th ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors' Meeting and the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank Board of Governors, held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on 3-6 May 2026. The ASEAN+3 meeting reviewed regional and global macroeconomic conditions and endorsed priority work directions for deeper regional financial cooperation, with particular attention to financial safety net arrangements, bond market development, disaster risk financing and digital cross-border payment connectivity. The ASEAN+3 discussions covered work under the Chiang Mai Initiative, the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office, the Asian Bond Markets Initiative and future regional initiatives, including a dedicated central bank dialogue on cross-border payment connectivity. At the ADB annual meeting, members and experts focused on three priority areas: connectivity for development, including cross-border payment infrastructure, energy systems, trade and coordination; data for development through digital technology and data-driven solutions; and mobilizing finance for development, including support for private investment and stronger domestic resource mobilization. Participants agreed to continue cooperation on implementing the ASEAN+3 priority work plan. In opening remarks at the ADB meeting, President Masato Kanda said tensions in the Middle East and other current challenges could spill over into energy markets, supply chains and digital networks, and outlined ADB plans to increase investment and accelerate reforms to strengthen regional connectivity.
Bank of the Lao 2026-05-06
Bank of the Lao completes participation in ASEAN+3 and ADB meetings focused on regional financial cooperation and cross-border payments
The Bank of the Lao reported its delegation’s participation in the 29th ASEAN+3 Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting and the 59th Asian Development Bank Board of Governors’ Annual Meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. ASEAN+3 members reviewed macroeconomic conditions and endorsed priority work on regional financial safety nets, bond market development, disaster risk financing and digital cross-border payment connectivity, including a central bank dialogue. At the ADB meeting, participants focused on connectivity, data and finance for development, with plans to increase investment and reforms to strengthen regional connectivity amid heightened geopolitical risks.