The Bank of Albania published Governor Gent Sejko’s welcome speech to the 19th South-Eastern European (SEE) Economic Research Workshop, positioning high-quality and independent research as a core input to monetary and macroprudential policy and to longer-term strategy setting. He framed the workshop as a vehicle for cross-border cooperation to analyse new shocks and structural shifts affecting economies and financial systems. Sejko cited rapid technological change including the wider use of artificial intelligence, unfavourable demographic trends, and heightened geopolitical and geostrategic uncertainty as factors increasing policy complexity. He noted that Albania’s macroeconomic data point to positive growth, low and contained inflation, adequate monetary and financial conditions, and sound banking balance sheets, while warning that geopolitical tensions, supply-chain disruptions, and energy and food price volatility continue to shape expectations and trade dynamics. The speech also pointed to investment needs linked to the green and digital transition and to labour-supply constraints from ageing and migration, arguing for prudent monetary and fiscal policies, further financial market development, and reforms to raise productivity through innovation, investment, competitiveness, stronger digital infrastructure, and broader inclusion.
Bank of Albania 2025-11-06
Bank of Albania Governor Sejko emphasises research-led policymaking and highlights rising macro-financial uncertainties at SEE workshop
Governor Gent Sejko of the Bank of Albania stressed the importance of high-quality, independent research for monetary and macroprudential policy at the 19th South-Eastern European Economic Research Workshop. He highlighted challenges like rapid technological change, demographic trends, and geopolitical uncertainties, while noting Albania's positive growth and stable financial conditions. Sejko advocated for prudent policies and reforms to address investment needs in green and digital transitions and enhance productivity and competitiveness.