The National Bank of Hungary and the Oesterreichische Nationalbank hosted a joint workshop on 11 April 2025 examining recent developments and the practical challenges of European Union integration in the Western Balkans, with participation from Hungarian, Austrian and Western Balkan central banks, the European Central Bank, and commercial banks and think-tanks active in the region. The event highlighted reform needs on both the accession countries’ side and within the EU, with speakers stressing efficient regulation, support for innovation, clear targets and convergence with EU standards. Opening remarks were delivered by MNB Executive Director Gergely Baksay and OeNB Director Birgit Niessner, followed by a keynote by ECB section head Éva Katalin Polgár underscoring the need to accelerate accession. Three panels addressed payment-system infrastructure and electronic payment options, the region’s geopolitical role and the growth impact of trade and foreign direct investment alongside the relative role of EU funds and other global players, and key obstacles to membership including the EU-funded Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans.
National Bank of Hungary 2025-04-24
National Bank of Hungary and Oesterreichische Nationalbank hold workshop on Western Balkans EU integration and reform priorities
The National Bank of Hungary and the Oesterreichische Nationalbank hosted a workshop on EU integration in the Western Balkans, involving central banks, the European Central Bank, and regional stakeholders. Discussions emphasized reform needs, efficient regulation, innovation support, and convergence with EU standards. Panels covered payment infrastructure, geopolitical roles, trade impacts, and accession obstacles, including the EU-funded Reform and Growth Facility.