The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Sona Shrestha as director general of its South Asia Department (SARD). She will oversee ADB’s strategy and operations in Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.

Shrestha, who has more than 27 years of development experience, including 23 years at ADB, previously served as deputy director general for SARD. She has also held senior roles in ADB’s Independent Evaluations Department, Financial Sector and Trade Division for Southeast Asia, and as deputy country director for Indonesia.

“I am honoured to be appointed director general of South Asia,” Shrestha said, adding that she looks forward to working closely with member countries to promote inclusive and sustainable development.

She holds a doctorate and master’s degrees in economics from the University of California, US, and a bachelor’s degree from Smith College, Massachusetts.

Founded in 1966, ADB is a multilateral development bank owned by 69 members, supporting sustainable growth and development across Asia and the Pacific.