Chinese President Jiang Zemin delivering a keynote speech on "Unity and Cooperation in Asia for Peace and Development in the World" at its opening ceremony.

During the six-day meeting in Shanghai, governors approved the ADB's strategy for poverty reduction, reorganization and a series of work reports.

They also exchanged views on major problems the region is facing, and discussed issues on strengthening regional cooperation,the challenges of environmental deterioration and the role of private businesses in economic development and poverty reduction.

Chinese Finance Minister Xiang Huaicheng, who is chairman of the 35th ADB annual meeting, said its achievements would inject new impetus into unity in the region.

ADB President Tadao Chino said the meeting was a big success and was sure to play an active role in realizing Asia's set targets for the new century.

More than 3,000 people including senior officials with 60 ADB members, high-ranking managers of international financial organizations and dignitaries from academic circles attended the meeting and other activities.

The meeting decided that the 36th ADB annual meeting will be held in Istanbul, Turkey.

(Xinhua News Agency May 12, 2002)