Sona Shrestha Appointed ADB Director General For South Asia To Strengthen Regional Development

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Sona Shrestha as the new Director General of its South Asia Department (SARD). In her new role, she will lead the development and implementation of ADB’s strategy and operations across six countries in the region—Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The appointment comes at a time when South Asia continues to focus on infrastructure growth, climate resilience, and inclusive economic development.

Expressing her views on the new role, Ms. Shrestha said she is honored to take on the responsibility and looks forward to working closely with ADB’s developing member countries in South Asia. She emphasized her commitment to strengthening ADB’s engagement in the region and supporting inclusive and sustainable development initiatives.

Ms. Shrestha brings more than 27 years of professional experience in development, including 23 years with ADB. Before this appointment, she served as Deputy Director General for the South Asia Department. Over the years, she has held several senior positions within the bank. These include Deputy Director General of ADB’s Independent Evaluation Department, Assistant Secretary, Director in the Financial Sector and Trade Division for Southeast Asia, and Deputy Country Director for Indonesia. She has also gained operational experience across Central and West Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, contributing to various regional development programs.

A national of Nepal, Ms. Shrestha has a strong academic background in economics. She holds a doctorate and master’s degrees in economics from the University of California in the United States, and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Smith College, Massachusetts.

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank that supports inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Established in 1966, the bank works with its members and partners to address complex development challenges. It uses innovative financial tools and partnerships to build quality infrastructure, improve livelihoods, and promote environmental sustainability. ADB is owned by 69 members, including 50 from the Asia and Pacific region, and continues to play a key role in supporting economic progress across South Asia.