PRESS RELEASE
Governor Sejko receives the Ambassador of Japan in Tirana

On 13 September 2017, the Governor of the Bank of Albania, Mr Gent Sejko received H.E. Ambassador of Japan in Tirana, Mr Makoto Ito, in an official meeting at the Bank of Albania.

Governor Sejko extended his appreciation to H.E. Ambassador Ito for the very good relations between our two countries. They discussed about the potential perspectives of economic cooperation in various fields, among others, trade exchanges, advancement in information technology, and development of infrastructure.

They also talked about the economic landscape in Albania, and Governor Sejko underlined the insofar positive performance of economic growth, which is expected to continue on a positive trajectory in the future. 'In this context, - he said - the accommodative monetary policy implemented by the Bank of Albania has also contributed to furthering economic development, maintaining consumer price stability, and safeguarding financial stability in Albania.'

About developments in structural reforms in Albania, Governor Sejko said that the continuation of these reforms remains particularly important for improving the business climate and attracting foreign investments in Albania. The extensive and efficient labour market in Albania was highlighted as another significant factor that may be exploited for attracting new investments.

H.E. Ambassador of Japan in Tirana, Mr Makoto Ito thanked Governor Sejko for the meeting and commended the substantial contribution by the Bank of Albania in the country's macroeconomic stability. Ambassador Ito added that Albania, as a factor of stability in the region, contributes to maintaining and fostering the regional political and economic stability.

The interlocutors, in conclusion, pointed out that Albania is already set on the right path toward European integration, and that the Bank of Albania has also played a significant role in this regard, through its contribution to the approximation of the regulatory framework to the European Union directives and standards.