The article discusses the role of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in fostering economic development and cooperation in the Asian region. Established by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and Far East (ECAFE), the ADB aims to provide financial assistance, promote investment, and offer technical support to developing member countries. Over 60% of its capital is subscribed by 19 countries within the ECAFE region, with the President and seven of ten Directors coming from this region. However, the ADB also has members and contributions from countries outside Asia. In an interview with Mr. Takeshi Watanabe, President of the ADB, the article explores several key aspects of the bank's activities. The ADB's primary focus is on economic growth and cooperation, particularly in the agricultural sector, where it aims to promote innovation and modernization. The bank has completed an Asian Agricultural Survey, which provides a framework for its agricultural policies and technical assistance programs. These include initiatives in water management, food production, and rural credit. The ADB also aims to increase exports and industrialize the region through financial aid and technical assistance. It emphasizes a flexible approach to meet the diverse needs of its member countries, balancing agricultural and industrial development. The bank's interest rates are considered realistic and competitive, and it has mechanisms for concessional lending through Special Funds to support countries with balance of payments difficulties. The article also addresses the promotion of intra-regional trade, the potential for an "Asian and Far Eastern Economic Community," and the role of non-regional members in contributing to the ADB's activities. It highlights the bank's commitment to economic integration and the importance of realistic strategies in industrialization planning.The article discusses the role of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in fostering economic development and cooperation in the Asian region. Established by the United Nations Economic Commission for Asia and Far East (ECAFE), the ADB aims to provide financial assistance, promote investment, and offer technical support to developing member countries. Over 60% of its capital is subscribed by 19 countries within the ECAFE region, with the President and seven of ten Directors coming from this region. However, the ADB also has members and contributions from countries outside Asia. In an interview with Mr. Takeshi Watanabe, President of the ADB, the article explores several key aspects of the bank's activities. The ADB's primary focus is on economic growth and cooperation, particularly in the agricultural sector, where it aims to promote innovation and modernization. The bank has completed an Asian Agricultural Survey, which provides a framework for its agricultural policies and technical assistance programs. These include initiatives in water management, food production, and rural credit. The ADB also aims to increase exports and industrialize the region through financial aid and technical assistance. It emphasizes a flexible approach to meet the diverse needs of its member countries, balancing agricultural and industrial development. The bank's interest rates are considered realistic and competitive, and it has mechanisms for concessional lending through Special Funds to support countries with balance of payments difficulties. The article also addresses the promotion of intra-regional trade, the potential for an "Asian and Far Eastern Economic Community," and the role of non-regional members in contributing to the ADB's activities. It highlights the bank's commitment to economic integration and the importance of realistic strategies in industrialization planning.