Kathmandu. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Sona Shrestha as the Director General of its South Asia Department. From now onwards, she will lead the development and implementation of ADB’s strategy and operations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
“I am honored to be appointed Director General for South Asia,” said Shrestha, adding, “I look forward to working closely with our developing member countries in the region to deepen ADB’s engagement in supporting inclusive and sustainable development.” ”
Shrestha is an experienced ADB with over 27 years of professional experience, including 23 years. Prior to this appointment, Shrestha was the Deputy Director General for SARD, a program under the World Bank. She has also served as Deputy Director-General of ADB’s Independent Evaluation Division, Assistant Secretary, Director in the Financial Sector and Trade Division for Southeast Asia, and Advisor for Indonesia. In her previous professional role at ADB, she has extensive operational experience in Central and West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
Shrestha holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Economics from the University of California, USA. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Smith College in Massachusetts.
