PRESS RELEASE
The Governor of the National Bank of Austria Mr Martin Kocher visits the Bank of Albania

The Governor of the Oesterreichische Nationalbank, Mr Martin Kocher, paid an official visit to the Bank of Albania on 26 May 2026, in the context of the continued strengthening of institutional cooperation between the two central banks. In view of Albania’s European integration process, this moment marks a milestone in the further expansion of bilateral collaboration between the Bank of Albania and the Oesterreichische Nationalbank. This was the first official visit of Governor Martin Kocher to Albania.

Under the auspices of Governor Gent Sejko, the visit commenced with a bilateral meeting held at the premises of the Bank of Albania. Discussions focused on recent economic and financial developments, as well as on matters of common interest relating to the banking sector and regional cooperation.

Governor Sejko expressed his appreciation to Governor Kocher for the visit and welcomed the close economic relations between Albania and Austria.  He highlighted the important contribution of Austrian investment to the development and modernisation of the Albanian economy, particularly in the financial sector. Furthermore, Austria remains an important economic partner of Albania and a steadfast supporter of the country’s European integration process.

Governor Sejko underlined the contribution of Austrian financial institutions operating in Albania as a successful example of bilateral economic cooperation, noting their role in the development of financial intermediation and the advancement of contemporary banking practices.

Governor Sejko subsequently provided an overview of economic developments in Albania, emphasising that the Albanian economy has remained resilient and continued to follow a positive trajectory despite challenges stemming from the international environment. Governor Sejko stated that expansion in economic activity has been supported by consumption, investment, tourism and a sound banking sector, while inflation has converged close to the Bank of Albania’s target.

The Governor added that Albania’s consolidated economic and financial stability provides a sound basis for withstanding shocks stemming from elevated oil prices. Regarding developments in the banking sector, Governor Sejko pointed out that the sector remains well-capitalised and highly liquid and profitable, while credit to the private sector continues to expand and the non-performing loan ratio remains at historically low levels.

Mr Sejko further reiterated the Bank of Albania’s commitment to safeguarding price and financial stability, as well as to the modernisation of the financial infrastructure and the supervisory framework.

Discussions also focused on several key issues relevant to the future of the financial sector, including Albania’s European integration process and the harmonisation of the regulatory and supervisory framework with EU standards, as well as the impact of technological developments and financial innovation on the banking industry.

As part of the official visit, the Bank of Albania also organised a roundtable with representatives of the banking sector and senior officials of the Bank of Albania. The discussions focused on key issues for the financial sector, including the European integration process, developments in financial markets, banking supervision, and issues related to its modernisation.

Governor Kocher underlined in his remarks that trust remains the foundation of financial stability in an increasingly volatile and multipolar world. He emphasised that central banks, supervisors and banks alike must remain vigilant, resilient and forward-looking in addressing geopolitical risks, real estate vulnerabilities and the rapid technological transformation and cybersecurity challenges.

Governor Kocher also stressed the importance of deeper and more integrated European capital markets, noting that reducing fragmentation and strengthening access to venture capital are essential to support innovation, competitiveness and long-term growth in Europe and the region.

Regarding the geopolitical situation Governor Kocher noted that the impact on Europe and the region is currently expected to be more limited than during the energy crisis of 2022, while emphasising the importance of preparedness and prudent risk management by central banks and the banking sector. He also highlighted the close economic and financial ties between Austria and Albania, stressing that Austria continues to support Albania’s path towards European integration and deeper cooperation with European institutions.

The roundtable concluded with interventions by Governor Sejko and Governor Kocher, who responded to questions from participants on the topics discussed, as well as on the current challenges facing their respective central banks.

In the course of his visit, Governor Kocher also toured the exhibition “Money Talks: 100 Years of Life and Events, Bank of Albania”, marking the 100th anniversary of the Bank of Albania and the national currency. The occasion was regarded as a symbolic moment, reflecting Albania’s monetary and historical heritage.

During his stay in Albania, Governor Kocher met with the Prime Minister of Albania, H.E. Mr   Edi Rama. The discussions in this meeting focused on economic relations between the two countries, prospects for enhanced financial cooperation, and Austria’s support for Albania’s European integration process.