Abu Dhabi, — October 20, 2024 — At the sidelines of (ICCA) Congress 2024, the Secretary General of the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP), Mr. Enrique Florencio, shared an insightful message celebrating the association’s 40-year journey in promoting sustainability across the region.

Reflecting on ADFIAP’s commitment to sustainable development, the Secretary-General emphasized the pivotal role that member institutions play in advocating for projects that positively impact the environment, society, and governance (ESG). For decades, ADFIAP has been at the forefront of integrating sustainability into development financing,” Mr. Florencio stated. Our members are not just financial institutions but catalysts for change, driving initiatives that foster economic growth while safeguarding our planet and communities.”

The session underscored the importance of embedding sustainability into organizations’ corporate DNA. The Secretary-General stressed, “Sustainability must be a core value, not just an add-on. It should influence every decision we make and every strategy we implement.” This sentiment aligns with the growing recognition that sustainable practices are essential for long-term success in today’s business environment.

Additionally, the Secretary-General highlighted the significance of sustainability reporting in fostering transparency and accountability within organizations. “Accurate reporting allows stakeholders to understand the impacts of an organization’s activities and encourages more informed decision-making,” he noted. “It’s not just about compliance; it’s about building trust and demonstrating commitment to sustainable practices.”

The ICCA Congress 2024 provided an excellent platform for ADFIAP to share its experiences and best practices, inspiring other organizations to adopt similar approaches. As global challenges such as climate change and social inequality continue to escalate, the Secretary General’s message resonated strongly with attendees, reinforcing the need for a collective effort toward sustainable development. He stressed, “We must all work together to address these challenges, and ADFIAP is committed to leading the way.”

As ADFIAP embarks on its next chapter, the organization remains dedicated to leading the charge in sustainable finance, ensuring that its members continue to make meaningful contributions to a more sustainable future for all.