CDIA Provides Insights on Future-Proofing Infrastructure

CDIA, through its Communications and Outreach Specialist An Rubenecia joined Global Infrastructure Basel Foundation’s (GIB) Future-Proof Infrastructure virtual event on 28 March 2023.  

Held annually, the event showcases sustainable investment opportunities and facilitates the financing and execution of infrastructure projects by bringing together key decision-makers and stakeholders around curated, bankable projects.  

An joined as a panelist for the Discussion on Project Preparation Actors on Future-Proof Infrastructure, which spotlighted the role of project preparation facilities and their assistance in infrastructure development. 

She introduced CDIA and the support it provides to cities in Asia and the Pacific in preparing bankable projects, linking them to financing, and building local capacities toward the sustainable implementation of priority investments. She also explained its approach on how cities can future proof their infrastructure projects.  

“We [CDIA] mostly focus on secondary cities and help them become more livable,” An said during her opening pitch. “We support climate-resilient development through adaptation and mitigation measures, including nature-based solutions. We also promote inclusion of all vulnerable groups including women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Aside from promoting innovation, we also endeavor to strengthen the implementation and management skills of implementers,” she added. 

United Nations Economic Commission for Europe’s Head of Public-Private Partnerships Program Tony Bonnici and Sustainable Infrastructure Foundation – SOURCE Integration Manager Pedro Nicolau joined An as co-panelists. Meanwhile, Co-Managing Director of Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy Andy Deacon served as the moderator of the session. 

The GIB virtual event provided a glimpse into the much-larger early-stage infrastructure congress and expo being planned for next year in Basel, Switzerland.