About 55 AFE–ADB members gathered from around the world on the afternoon of 2 May 2009 to attend AFE’s 23rd Annual General Meeting. The meeting was held at the Bali International Convention Center, in Bali, Indonesia.
In the morning, the AFE executive secretary, Hans-Juergen Springer, chaired a meeting of AFE–ADB country coordinators in another room of the Convention Center. He, together with deputy executive secretary, Jill Gale de Villa, and treasurer, David Parker, updated the coordinators on AFE's activities, health insurance and pensions, and AFE’s financial position. Country coordinators participated in lively discussions on these and related matters, including the use of AFE funds, and possible issues for discussion at the AGM in the afternoon.
The Annual General Meeting was chaired by AFE President Bong-Suh Lee. After his address, Hans-Juergen Springer reported on AFE’s activities and presented recommendations that needed general membership action. David Parker then spoke about AFE’s financial position, and Jill Gale de Villa informed members about developments in health and insurance matters. During discussions that followed, several motions were carried, most requiring subsequent action by the AFE team in Manila. Gam de Armas gave a presentation on the AFE website. For details of the discussions, click on the following links: minutes of the meeting; and reports on pensions, health insurance, and finances.
The evening featured a well-attended cocktail reception for AFE members, invited guests, and their accompanying persons. ADB President Kuroda addressed the gathering and spoke with many of the participants. All who attended thoroughly enjoyed renewing friendships, catching up on each other’s news and activities, and reminiscing about their days at ADB.
The 42nd Annual Meeting of ADB’s Board of Governors commenced on 3 May 2009. The meeting opened with addresses by Indonesian President Yudhyono and ADB President Kuroda. The speeches were followed by a spectacular performance of many of Indonesia ’s artistic talents, and capped by the original sound track, “From ADB to the World,” a very moving song indeed. Business sessions, seminars, and member country presentations ensued. AFE members enjoyed the dinner hosted by Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Minister of Finance of the Republic of Indonesia, in a spectacular outdoor setting with additional impressive performances by local artists, and the cocktails hosted by ADB President Kuroda. Tours hosted by the Indonesian government included a variety of cultural, scenic, and shopping opportunities. Participants enjoyed visiting temples, plantations, handicraft factories, art galleries, and more.