The South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) held a panel discussion on 6 May 2025 in Milan, Italy, about improving connectivity to boost integration and economic growth in South Asia. Speakers shared insights on and experiences on policy frameworks, successful initiatives, and lessons learned. The event also held discussions on emerging priorities to foster greater regional integration and unlock South Asia's economic potential.

The event, moderated by Ms. Sona Shrestha, deputy director general, South Asia Department, ADB, was held on the sidelines of the Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank.

Mr. Thiam Hee Ng, regional head, Regional Cooperation and Integration Unit, South Asia Department, ADB, was presenter and Mr. Takeo Konishi, director general, South Asia Department, ADB, gave and closing remarks.

The panel consisted of Mr. Ronit Ghose, global head, Future of Finance, Citi Institute, Mr. Andrew Masters, senior economist and head, Economic Development Pillar, Indo-Pacific Regional Department, UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Mr. Satvinder Singh, deputy secretary-general, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community, and Ms. Dushni Weerakoon, executive director, Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka.