<h1>Call to fast-track creation of regional development bank with multilateral co-financing, boosting trade, infrastructure, green tech and AI cooperation</h1> A senior leader of a founding member urged a 10-member regional organisation, now expanded to broader participation, to accelerate creation of a dedicated development bank, proposing it mirror existing multilateral development institutions and pursue co-financing arrangements. The address emphasized respecting sovereign differences, strengthening strategic communication and consensus, and enhancing cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy, green industry, digital economy and AI. Announced measures include targeted funding and loan commitments to regional financial consortia, increased scholarships and joint doctoral training, establishment of technical and vocational workshops, and proposals to operationalize existing counterterrorism and anti-drug centres and launch a global governance initiative.