ADB Streamlines Think Tank Network In South Asia

November 13, 2007 10:24 p.m. EST

New Delhi, India (AHN) - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is putting in $1.2 million to expand the scope of analytical work in South Asia's think tanks and research institutes. Because think tanks help mold public opinion and often influence political decisions, the ADB says, they contribute to stronger regional cooperation.

"The project will promote regional economic cooperation in South Asia through knowledge sharing, policy formulation and improving the capacity of research institutes through studies and workshops," said Shunsuke Bando, an economist at ADB's South Asia Department.

The initiative is expected to increase interaction among regional experts and widen the dissemination of research material that supports regional cooperation, the ADB said.

It is an extension of a small scale technical assistance started in 2004 and to be completed this month by the South Asian Center of Policy Studies.

The loan will help research institutes undertake studies, workshops and publications on regional cooperation that will recommend policies and plans among members of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation established in 1985 by Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.