Ms. Lao-Araya, who began the role today, will lead ADB’s operations in Uzbekistan and oversee the preparation and implementation of the bank’s new country partnership strategy for 2023-2028. ADB will strengthen its support for the country’s transformation toward an inclusive and market-driven economy, private sector development, green transformation, reduced economic and social inequalities, and greater regional cooperation and integration.

“I am delighted to lead ADB’s ongoing efforts to support Uzbekistan’s reform agenda,” said Ms. Lao-Araya. “Through investment, knowledge and private sector operations, we will continue to help Uzbekistan develop its human capital, strengthen its resilience to external shocks, and support its transition to a green economy.”

Ms. Lao-Araya has more than 25 years of experience working on development and economic issues throughout Asia and the Pacific, including Central Asia. She joined ADB from the Thai Ministry of Finance in 2001 and has since held several senior positions at the bank. She was most recently the country director for the Kyrgyz Republic, where she led the bank’s operations, including support for the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a devastating impact on the Kyrgyz economy and the health of its people.

Ms. Lao-Araya, a citizen of Thailand, holds doctoral and master’s degrees in economics from Indiana University (Bloomington) in the United States and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand. Ms. Lao-Araya succeeds Cindy Malvicini, who was appointed as Deputy Director General of ADB’s South Asia Department.