China's Zou Jiayi Named Next AIIB President Starting 2026

Zou Jiayi, former Chinese Vice Finance Minister, has been appointed as the next president of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), becoming the institution's first female president. She will begin her five-year term in January 2026, succeeding founding President Jin Liqun, who shaped the AIIB as a key part of President Xi Jinping's 'Belt and Road' initiative. Under Jin's leadership, the AIIB grew to include 110 member countries, with China as the largest shareholder, followed by India, Russia, and Germany. Zou brings extensive experience from major international financial institutions like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, and is expected to expand the bank's presence in global financial centers such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and London. Diplomats anticipate that Zou will align the AIIB more closely with major development spenders including the U.S. and Japan. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for gender representation in international finance and signals continued growth and innovation for the AIIB.