PRESS RELEASE
The European Fund for Southeast Europe Launch in Albania

The World's largest Microfinance Investment Fund will help developing micro and small enterprises

The European Fund for Southeast Europe (EFSE) is launching operations to finance micro and small entrepreneurs, farmers and families in Albania. Over the next five years, EFSE is expected to provide about 120,000 loans to micro and small enterprises (MSEs) and farmers, extend some 30,000 housing loans to families and will contribute to the creation of around 30,000 jobs throughout the region of Southeast Europe, including Albania.

Mr. Ardian Fullani, Governor of the Bank of Albania, says that these operations will be helpful to support the development of micro and small enterprises in Albania.

"In this context, the launch of the European Fund for Southeast Europe is a new element, which will serve as a catalyst for a number of new changes and opportunities, in line with the requirements of a modern market, able to support the perspective development of the country".

Dr. Klaus Maurer, Chief Investment Officer, explains how EFSE will operate in Albania and what impact is to be expected within the region.

"With EFSE we are convinced to have found a modern version of the Marshall Plan for the 21st century."

With a total capital base of currently EUR 244.5 million, EFSE ranks among the world's largest development finance funds. Its capital base is comprised of donor contributions and fresh funds from International Finance Institutions like IFC, EBRD, KfW, FMO and private institutional investors.

The Promoter of the Fund is KfW, the German Development Bank. The Fund is managed by Oppenheim-Pramerica Asset Management S.à r.l. with Bankakademie e.V. as Adviser. Custody and Fund Administration is with Citibank International plc (Luxembourg branch).

For further information please contact: EFSE Frankfurt Office, Jürgen R. Hammer, [email protected], Tel.: +49 69 154008-698.