Cambodia Investment Review
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has appointed Yasmin Siddiqi as Country Director for Cambodia, bringing more than 26 years of expertise in agriculture, water, and rural development, including 16 years of dedicated service with ADB – she succeeds Jyotsana Varma, who served in the role since 2022.
Ms. Siddiqi will lead ADB’s operations in Cambodia, oversee the implementation of its country partnership strategy 2024-2028—closely aligned with the first phase of the national Pentagonal Strategy for the same period—and strengthen collaboration with the government, development partners, and other stakeholders to support the country’s aspirations to achieve high-income status in the decades ahead.
Accelerate Cambodia’s Economic & Social Development
“I am honored to take on this role and look forward to working closely with the Government of Cambodia and our development partners to accelerate Cambodia’s economic and social development,” said Ms. Siddiqi. “ADB remains strongly committed to backing Cambodia’s development priorities, particularly in expanding high-quality, climate-resilient infrastructure, fostering private sector-led economic diversification, and improving access to essential services such as education, healthcare, and clean water.”
Prior to her appointment as Country Director for Cambodia, Ms. Siddiqi served as Director of ADB’s Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development Sector for Central, West, and South Asia. She led the design and implementation of complex loan and technical assistance projects and was widely recognized for championing innovative technologies and promoting private sector engagement to accelerate progress for farmers across Asia.
Advocating For The Empowerment Of Women & Girls
A national of the United Kingdom, Ms. Siddiqi holds a master’s degree in irrigation engineering from the University of Southampton and is a professional chartered civil engineer. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing climate-resilient initiatives and advocating for the empowerment of women and girls.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.
