The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group participated in the 2026 APEC Finance and Central Bank Deputies’ Meeting (FCBDM) held in Shanghai, China, on February 4–5, 2026.
Representing the IDB Group, Brian Blakely, Lead Investment Officer, joined delegates from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss fiscal priorities, digital transformation, financial inclusion, and emerging macroeconomic challenges.
During the meeting, Mr. Blakely delivered a presentation on the IDB Group’s approach to bridging the digital infrastructure financing gap, highlighting the importance of meaningful connectivity, regulatory coherence, and blended finance models to unlock private investment. His intervention reinforced multilateral coordination on advancing digital infrastructure and supporting inclusive, resilient growth across APEC economies.
The FCBDM concluded with broad endorsement of the 2026 Finance Ministers’ Process (FMP) Priorities and Work Plan, which emphasize:
• Strengthening fiscal policies that support households, including improved spending efficiency and human capital investment;
• Advancing digital infrastructure financing to address connectivity gaps and improve project preparation and regulatory coherence;
• Promoting financial access and opportunity for all, with a focus on inclusion, consumer protection, and interoperable digital payments systems; and
• Supporting the APEC Young Financial Talents Dialogue, aimed at developing next generation financial officials through capacity building and cross economy engagement.
The IDB Group will continue to work with partners, including those in the Asia-Pacific region, to address development challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean.
About the IDB Group
The Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB Group) is the leading source of financing and knowledge for improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. It comprises the IDB, which works with the region’s public sector and enables the private sector; IDB Invest, which directly supports private companies and projects; and IDB Lab, which spurs entrepreneurial innovation.
The IDB and Japan
Japan became the first non-regional member in 1976. Since then, Japan has continued to contribute both financial and human resources.
About the IDB
With over 60 years of experience, we have been partnering with governments to drive progress and development.
About IDB Invest
Focused on the private sector, we provide investment solutions that foster business growth.
About IDB Lab
We explore and implement innovative strategies to promote inclusive growth and address developmental challenges.