ADB was able to use its convening power effectively because it had the necessary in-house technical expertise. Public health experts on ADB's staff with knowledge of emerging infectious diseases were involved in designing and implementing the project. This in-house expertise made the dialogue with the technical and regional agencies to strengthen regional collaboration within and across the animal health and human health sectors possible. This dialogue also highlighted the advantages of using a multisector approach to address the problem of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases to provide national and regional economic development benefits. For partnerships between ADB and technical agencies, ADB needs to have strong in-house technical capacity in the relevant areas. Equally important is to have a dedicated team to support the in-house experts in coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the regional activities. Given the range of technical and regional implementing partners involved, the project did well by fielding experts in key geographical areas (Bangkok and Almaty) to facilitate regional collaboration.
Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza in Asia and the Pacific