Dr Joachim von Amsberg, Vice President for Policy and Strategy, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)’s inaugural Asian Financial Infrastructure report launched in Beijing in January 2019 concluded that infrastructure projects focused on cross-border connectivity present significant investment opportunities and are vital for the long-term growth in Asia. However, geopolitical tensions, rising nationalism and macro-economic developments are impacting cost drivers and investment potential on a country-by-country basis. There has also been no real breakthrough in mobilising private capital for infrastructure in the region. AIIB believes that there is an urgent need to redouble efforts to mobilise capital and for multilateral development banks to contribute to this.

In this briefing, Dr Joachim von Amsberg, Vice President for Policy and Strategy, AIIB, will discuss the investment opportunities in Asia, the challenges presented by the uncertain global economic landscape, and AIIB’s priorities against this backdrop. 

 Dr Amsberg last visited Asia House in May 2017, where he gave a speech on the infrastructure investment paradox, how the need for a new multinational development bank has developed, and how AIIB will position itself in the evolving multilateral landscape. Nearly two years on, this is an opportunity to hear his reflections on AIIB’s development and scope for the future. As Vice President for Policy and Strategy at AIIB, Dr Amsberg drives the strategic direction of the Bank, including its sectoral and country priorities, investment strategy and programming, economic analysis and research, and operating budget. He oversees the Bank’s environmental and social policies, other operational policies, and their implementation.

Before joining the AIIB, Dr Amsberg worked at the World Bank for 25 years, including three years as Vice President Development Finance (formerly Concessional Finance and Global Partnerships), and three years as Vice President for Operations Policy and Country Services.

This lunchtime briefing is held exclusively for Asia House Corporate Members. For more information, please contact aini.abdullah@asiahouse.co.uk.