Asian Development Bank appoints new country director for Azerbaijan

BAKU. Oct 7 (Interfax) - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Sunniya Durrani-Jamal as its new country director for Azerbaijan, effective October 7.

Durrani-Jamal has replaced Candice McDeigan, who had been country director since 2021, the ADB said.

Durrani-Jamal now leads the ADB's operations in Azerbaijan and manages the bank's relations with the government and other stakeholders. She oversees preparation and implementation of the bank's new country partnership strategy.

"My priority is to expand the ADB's solid partnership with the government, help diversify the economy, and improve the quality of life of people in Azerbaijan. This includes expanding renewable energy, addressing climate change, and helping the country transition to a green economy," Durrani-Jamal said in the statement.

Durrani-Jamal has over 25 years of professional experience, including 16 years at the ADB, where she has held key management positions.

Azerbaijan has been a member of the Asian Development Bank since 1999. The ADB has provided the country with lending resources totaling over $5 billion in the past 25 years.