PRESS RELEASE
Governor Sejko receives H.E. Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary in Albania, Mr Lóránt Balla

On 27 September 2018, the Governor of the Bank of Albania, Mr Gent Sejko, received H.E. Ambassador of the Republic of Hungary in Albania, Mr Lóránt Balla.

At the beginning of the meeting, Governor Sejko commented the very good historical relationships between Albania and Hungary, focusing also in the very successful collaborations between the two countries.

Governor Sejko presented Ambassador Balla with an overview of the economic developments in Albania, and stated that the economic growth is set on a positive development trajectory, supported by the improved external environment and the favourable financial conditions in Albania. He pointed out that the latest figures show a rather positive stance, nevertheless the environment remains quite challenging and the need for further progress will continue to be in the focus of the Albanian institutions.

Governor Sejko also focused in the very important process of Albania’s membership in the European Union.  In this context, Mr Sejko emphasised that the support by a member country of the European Union, as Hungary, is of a special importance for the opening of negotiations and the complete integration of Albania in the EU.

Regarding the financial developments, the Governor stated that the banking system is well capitalised, liquid and financially sound, and the Bank of Albania will continue to conduct with professionalism its regulatory role, for its further development.

The Ambassador of Hungary highlighted the importance of the implementation of economic, structural and sectorial reforms, and appraised the progress done in the recent years in Albania. He emphasized that attributable to this progress, Albania has attracted the attention of many countries, particularly in the field of tourism.

H.E. Ambassador Balla added that the Hungarian investors have shown interest to invest in various sectors in Albania.  He pointed out that the interest shown by them, so far, may serve to enhance the credibility and to attract more investors from other countries as well in the future.

The Ambassador stated that the continuation of reforms is a crucial element, whose positive outcomes will positively drive to the establishment of a more attracting environment to foreign investors.

The interlocutors, in conclusion, shared the same views about the perspectives of advancing the economic cooperation between the two countries, mainly in the field of the financial system, and the growth of foreign investments in Albania.