Paolo Spantigati, joined as the new Country Director of the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Timor-Leste Resident Mission (TLRM) in Dili, Timor-Leste. He said, he will encourage private sector development to drive inclusive economic growth in Timor-Leste in his new role.
Mr. Spantigati is a national of Italy. He graduated suma cum laude in economics from the University of Rome la Sapienza in Italy and has more than 20 years of professional experience working in economic development, including nearly 17 years in ADB.
“Using ADB’s new Country Partnership Strategy as a guide, I look forward to working with the Government of Timor-Leste to improve infrastructure, develop safe water systems and increase investments in human capital to help develop a sustainable, non-oil economy,” Mr. Spantigati said.
ADB’s support will help Timor-Leste lay stronger foundations for a sustainable non-oil economy by improving transport connectivity, expanding access to clean water in urban centers, and improving the financial and environmental sustainability of electricity supplies. ADB is also helping the government develop an integrated system for technical education, prepare for ASEAN membership, and implement reforms to develop the financial sector.
ADB is already helping boost economic opportunities, reconnect communities, and reduce poverty in some of the most disadvantaged areas in Timor-Leste through a range of initiatives, including infrastructure development, microfinance assistance, support for private sector development, and building knowledge and skills.
