Country context

The CPRO experience highlighted three main lessons. First, it confirmed Mongolia's solid precrisis record in structural reforms and macroeconomics, which put the country in a strong position to effectively respond to the multifarious impact of the pandemic. Second, the fast approval of the CPRO policy and lending modality enabled ADB to provide critical emergency support to eligible client countries in times of exceptional need, clearly showcasing the importance of institutional

The government's response to the pandemic was comprehensive and effective. It provided a policy framework through the National Emergency Response Plan, and identified a set of concrete measures, associated expenditures, and financing plan which it brought together under the countercyclical expenditure development plan. The expenditure development plan further combined revenue and expenditure measures shown by international experience to be effective in safeguarding fiscal sustainability.

Unforeseen events outside the control of the executing agency, such as amendments to laws and regulations and changes in decisions, require additional effort, time, and resources—and accordingly, flexibility in the project. This is especially relevant in the context of a country such as Mongolia, which is still transitioning to a market-based economy and rapidly developing, and therefore, frequently introduces new changes to the existing legislation.

Well-developed monitoring framework with logically defined target indicators can assist the project in measuring its achievements and results objectively. Under the project, an indicator about the share of e-trikes in the operation of 3-wheelers or the number of local government units adopting electric mobility options for public transport would have been more appropriate outcome indicators. Furthermore, the e-trikes’ operating costs and drivers’ income could have been included to assess the financial suitability of the new technology.

At the sector level, a conducive policy, legal, and institutional environment for PPP facilitates could enhance PSP in infrastructure services. PSP is facilitated when there are (i) a suitable policy and strategy for PPP, (ii) an established and professionally managed PPP Office that facilitates PPP processes, and

Targeted and medium- to long-term assistance in key sectors is particularly critical for Georgia to sustainably recover from COVID-19 impacts. There is opportunity in crisis that, if taken advantage of expeditiously, can lead to significant beneficial measures. In the case of Georgia, the depth of the crisis that led ADB and other development partners (DPs) to offer a large rescue package illustrates what can be achieved under crisis situations.

The CPRO was a highly effective pandemic response and reform program, which ADB can build upon to help accelerate the structural reform process it has been supporting in Georgia. The CPRO provided Georgia with a useful and effective tool in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. It was prepared with unprecedented speed and supported the priorities identified by the government in its COVID-19 response program.