ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced plans to invest over $10 billion by 2030 to support projects under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) programme, aiming to foster a digitally connected and resilient region. The announcement was made during a ministerial conference in Bishkek, where CAREC ministers endorsed the ‘Bishkek Declaration’ to promote trade, investment facilitation, and cooperation in emerging sectors such as digital trade and the green economy.
Communication Minister Abdul Aleem Khan represented Pakistan at the conference, while ADB President Masato Kanda said the investment would enhance regional connectivity, clean energy, digital transformation, and inclusive infrastructure. Since 2001, the CAREC programme has mobilised about $54 billion in investments for regional projects, supporting sustainable development and economic growth.
#ADBNews: At the 24th CAREC Ministerial Conference in Bishkek, ADB announced over $10 billion in financing through 2030 to support projects under the CAREC Program.
This investment will help drive economic resilience, growth, and digital integration across the region:… pic.twitter.com/jkxEm9J4yq
— Asian Development Bank (@ADB_HQ) November 21, 2025
The conference was preceded by the CAREC Business Forum, which gathered around 150 private sector and government leaders to explore opportunities for transforming CAREC corridors into engines of economic growth, digital innovation, and climate resilience. ADB is also advancing new platforms, including the CAREC Innovation and Venture Investment Facility and the BUILD Facility for border modernisation and logistics, aimed at accelerating cross-border cooperation.
On the sidelines of the conference, Pakistan’s IT and Telecommunication Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja formalised two MoUs. The first involves the CAREC Innovation and Venture Investment Catalyst (CIVIC) Facility to nurture early-stage venture fund managers across the region. The second pertains to the CAREC Digital Corridor Initiative, aimed at strengthening cross-border digital cooperation, innovation ecosystems, and digital trade, providing a high-capacity internet transit gateway through Pakistan.
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These agreements are expected to deepen Pakistan’s engagement in shared digital priorities, align with the Connect Pakistan 2030 Plan, and enhance regional connectivity while promoting inclusive digital economic growth. The next CAREC Ministerial Conference is scheduled in Mongolia in 2026, marking the 25th anniversary of the programme.