Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman, met with Zou Jiayi, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), on September 29, 2026, in Doha, Qatar. The meeting occurred during the AIIB Annual Meeting 2026 and focused on the bank’s extensive project pipeline in India. Both leaders exchanged views on enhancing bilateral cooperation, the expansion of operations, and aligning institutional priorities.

During their discussions, they acknowledged each other’s achievements. President Zou expressed congratulations to Sitharaman regarding the successful hosting of the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. In turn, the Finance Minister appreciated the AIIB’s operational progress, commending its performance during the initial half of the fiscal year.

Sitharaman further conveyed India’s formal endorsement of the AIIB’s forthcoming fiscal roadmap. She emphasised India’s commitment to the Bank’s budget plans for 2027 and the strategic areas targeted for operational scaling.

Evaluation of Ongoing and Future Projects

As the discussion progressed, President Zou recounted previous field evaluations conducted in India. He mentioned his past visits to key project sites in Delhi and Meerut, highlighting the bank’s ongoing efforts to finance projects focused on urban development and environmental conservation.

Sitharaman also touched on the need to broaden the lender’s conventional asset focus to meet evolving developmental needs in various sectors. She proposed that the AIIB could expand its financing scope beyond traditional physical infrastructure projects, including newer forms of infrastructure that prioritise artificial intelligence (AI), micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and skills development.

In addressing the domestic industrial landscape, she underscored the vital role that MSMEs play in India’s economy. She noted that assistance aimed at aiding their adaptation to AI technologies and enhancing workforce training could yield significant benefits for these enterprises.

Future Directions for the AIIB

The meeting culminated with a reflection on the governance structure and geographical focus of the AIIB in the future. Sitharaman reiterated that the regional importance of the bank should continue to be a fundamental characteristic guiding its mandate.

She emphasised that maintaining the AIIB’s centrality within the region is critical for its ongoing influence and effectiveness. This perspective resonates with India’s broader goals in the context of multilateral development and cooperation.

In conclusion, the meeting between Sitharaman and Zou facilitated a constructive dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing the AIIB, particularly in the context of its role in India. The discussions reinforced the commitment of both leaders to fostering a productive partnership aimed at addressing developmental priorities through strategic financial interventions.

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