In 2018, when ADB launched its Strategy 2030, the emphasis was on the unfinished development agendas in Asia achieve a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. These efforts centered on, among others, (a) quality infrastructure investments that are green, sustainable, resilient, and inclusive; (b) expansion of interventions in social sectors, such as education, health, and social protection; and (c) value addition of its DMCs by combining finance, knowledge, and partnerships. Seven operational plans18 that were in place in the initial years ofthe implementation of Strategy 2030 detailed how the overall objectives as stated were expected to be achieved. and challenges the region continues to face, and it calls for accelerated action on: (a) climate action; (b) private systems); (b) improved governance and institutional capacity for service delivery and for supporting private sector development; and (c) effective utilization of country systems and standards.19 These plans were targeted in: (a) addressing and reducing inequalities; (b) accelerating gender equality; (c) tackling climate change; (d) making cities more livable; (e) promoting rural development and food security;(f) strengthening governance and capability; and (g) fostering regional cooperation. It can be argued that effective utilization of country systems is the instrument through which the first two priorities are to be achieved. This point is taken up later in this study.