Manila: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Leah Gutierrez as Director General for its Central and West Asia Department. As Director General, Ms. Gutierrez will deliver ADB's strategic agenda in the Central and West Asia region. She will lead ADB's engagement with 11 countries: Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Her appointment takes effect today.

According to Asian Development Bank, Ms. Gutierrez expressed her commitment to her new role by stating, "I am honored to serve in this position and will continue to engage with developing member countries and stakeholders to promote inclusive growth, regional cooperation, and sustainable development across the region." Her leadership is expected to guide the bank's efforts in implementing projects and policies that address economic and developmental challenges in Central and West Asia.