Manila: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Nianshan Zhang as Director General for its Southeast Asia Department. Mr. Zhang will lead ADB's strategic agenda in Southeast Asia, advancing the bank's delivery of its sovereign, nonsovereign, and advisory solutions in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Viet Nam, including support for the ASEAN Presidency in 2026.
According to Asian Development Bank, Mr. Zhang expressed his commitment to the region, stating, "Southeast Asia is one of the most dynamic subregions in Asia and the Pacific, and I am honored to have this opportunity to lead ADB's engagement in this important area. We will continue to build on our strong relationships with our developing members and partners to deepen resilience against economic shocks, deliver sustainable services, and promote inclusive and sustainable growth."
Mr. Zhang brings nearly four decades of professional experience, including 23 years with ADB, to his new role. He has previously held significant positions within the bank, such as Senior Advisor to the Office of the Vice President in 2008, Deputy Country Director for the Pakistan Resident Mission in 2012, and Deputy Director General for the Central and West Asia Department in 2019. Before his current appointment, he was the Head of the bank's Office of Safeguards, where he led the implementation and monitoring of ADB's safeguards policy and procedures.
A national of the People's Republic of China, Mr. Zhang holds a master's degree in economics from the University of International Business and Economics and a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of International Economics and Trade, PRC.
ADB, established in 1966, is a leading multilateral development bank committed to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. It collaborates with its members and partners to tackle complex challenges, utilizing innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and protect the environment. The bank is owned by 69 members, 50 of which are from the region.