The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at mainstreaming climate adaptation and resilience within infrastructure projects across Asia and Africa.
The partnership focuses on integrating climate risk assessments and resilience-building strategies into AIIB’s infrastructure projects. It will leverage both organizations’ strengths to bolster the resilience of critical infrastructure, ensuring that communities most vulnerable to climate impacts are better protected and prepared.
AIIB and GCA will work together on high-impact projects, offering technical support and exploring cofinancing options in sectors including urban development, transportation, energy, water and digital infrastructure. The agreement also emphasizes knowledge sharing, capacity building and joint engagement in key regional and global climate forums.
“Climate change is intensifying at a scale and pace that challenges the resilience of communities worldwide, with infrastructure damage alone costing developing countries up to USD143 billion annually,” said Professor Patrick Verkooijen, CEO of the Global Center on Adaptation. “Our partnership with AIIB marks a significant leap forward in addressing these risks. Together, we are not just constructing infrastructure; we are creating a climate-proof foundation that will safeguard essential services for millions across Asia and Africa. By embedding resilience at the core of these projects, we are empowering the most vulnerable populations to withstand and adapt to future climate shocks. The Global Center on Adaptation is committed to leveraging our expertise and resources to build infrastructure that is as resilient as the communities it serves, ensuring a sustainable and secure future for all.”
“Our partnership with the Global Center on Adaptation marks a significant advancement in our efforts to mainstream climate adaptation within AIIB’s investment framework,” said Hun Kim, AIIB Acting Vice President, Investment Solutions Department. “By combining AIIB’s investment capabilities with GCA’s climate resilience expertise, we are fostering an ecosystem where sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructure is not just prioritized but realized. We are eager to advance our shared mission to protect communities and drive sustainable growth in regions most impacted by climate change.”
This partnership reflects the shared commitment of AIIB and GCA to support vulnerable populations by fortifying infrastructure projects against climate risks. As both organizations continue to address the urgent need for climate resilience, this collaboration will be instrumental in creating infrastructure solutions that are sustainable, inclusive and resilient for generations to come.
