BDC hosts 33rd ADFIAP Annual Meeting in Vancouver May 10 - 12

'Innovative Financing for a Greener Economy' to be addressed by development banks from Asia Pacific region

VANCOUVER, May 10 /CNW Telbec/ - The Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) is hosting the 33rd annual meeting of the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP) from May 10 to 12. The meeting brings together some 80 delegates representing 56 development financing institutions from 25 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

"The theme of this year's meeting, 'Innovative Financing for a Greener Economy' is important because global momentum is building among governments, investors and consumers for economic development that is environmentally and socially sustainable," said Jean-René Halde, President and Chief Executive Officer of BDC. "As a result of climate change, countries and markets around the world are acting to put a price on carbon. For entrepreneurs and businesses, this development carries both risks and extraordinary opportunities," he added.

Some of the issues the conference will address include the role development bankers and financing institutions can play in informing entrepreneurs of the evolution to a carbon-constrained economy, how to support them as they adapt and what type of financing will be required by those who are striving to operate in this new environment.

At the end of the meeting the ADFIAP delegates will adopt the "Vancouver Declaration," an action plan designed to guide development banks and financial institutions in their efforts to promote and support sustainable development.

About BDC

BDC is Canada's business development bank. From more than 100 offices across the country, BDC promotes entrepreneurship by providing tailored financing, venture capital and consulting services to entrepreneurs.

About ADFIAP

Founded in 1976, the ADFIAP includes public sector banks and financial institutions engaged in economic and entrepreneurial development of countries in the Asia-Pacific region. The ADFIAP, whose mission is to promote sustainable development through its members, is made up of 117 member institutions in 42 countries.

For further information: Johanne Bissonnette, Media Relations Manager, BDC, [phone], [email protected]