The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced the appointment of Lia Gutierrez as Director General of the Central and West Asia Department, replacing Evgeniy Zhukov.

As Director General, Ms. Gutierrez will be responsible for advancing ADB’s strategic agenda in the region, starting Monday. She oversees operations in 11 countries, including Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.

“I am honored to assume this position. I will continue to work with our developing member countries and stakeholders to promote inclusive growth, regional cooperation, and sustainable development across the region,” Lia Gutierrez said.

Lia Gutierrez has more than four decades of professional experience, 25 of which have been with ADB. Prior to her current appointment, she served as Director General of the Sector Department 3, overseeing operations in finance, human development, and public sector management. Ms. Gutierrez also led the Pacific Department. A citizen of the Philippines, Lia Gutierrez holds a PhD and an MA in economics from the University of Pennsylvania (USA).

Turkmenistan cooperates with ADB in areas such as transport and energy, as well as in the field of private sector support and investment partnerships.

In 2025, the parties celebrated the 25th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s membership in ADB.

ORIENT