The Governor of the Austrian National Bank (Oesterreichische Nationalbank), Martin Kocher, paid an official visit to the Bank of Albania on Tuesday, 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 Bank of Albania's premises. 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 modernization 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 Albania's economic developments, emphasizing 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.

Sejko further reiterated the Bank of Albania’s commitment to safeguarding price and financial stability, as well as to the modernization 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 harmonization 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 organized 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 modernization.

Governor Kocher underlined in his remarks that trust remains the foundation of financial stability in an increasingly volatile and multipolar world. He emphasized 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 emphasizing 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.