Investments in infrastructure —transport, irrigation, energy and information and communication technology— are crucial to achieving sustainable development and empowering communities in many countries. It has long been recognized that growth in productivity and incomes, and improvements in health and education outcomes require investment in infrastructure.

The pace of growth and urbanization is also creating a need for new investment in sustainable infrastructure that will make cities more climate-resilient and boost economic growth and social stability.

In addition to government funding and official development assistance, private sector funding is being encouraged for countries requiring financial, technological and technical support.

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