All these initiatives, coordinated with other policies, have proven effective. Inflation remains subdued and in check, inflationary expectations are anchored, macroeconomic environment is steady and financial stability is consolidated. Looking ahead, the Bank of Albania holds that the Albanian economy will continue to face the above-cited concerns over 2013 and beyond. Although improving, economic activity is expected to remain below its potential, followed by low inflationary pressures, creating premises for maintaining stimulating monetary conditions in the future. Likewise, our  BIS central bankers’ speeches  1  projections suggest that external balances of the economy are expected to improve. On the other hand, slow economic growth rates may generate pressures on debt stability indicators, unless they are identified and taken into consideration in fiscal policy decisions. In Bank of Albania’s view, growth rate recovery will require combining the cyclical stimulus of the economy with structural measures that expand the growth potential. Regarding the cyclical aspect, the Bank of Albania holds that macroeconomic policies are rightfully stimulating. In the absence of space, fiscal policy should continue to be oriented towards long-term stability of debt indicators. The monetary stimulus is expected to be transmitted more completely in the upcoming period. We continue to underline our message that businesses and consumers should have a more realistic approach on sound perspectives for the country’s development as well as revise up their consumption and investment plans.

In the presence of temporary shocks from the supply side, these factors were translated into negative economic growth for the first quarter. According to our estimations, the following months have recorded improved aggregate demand and economic activity, yielding economic growth for 2012. This growth, however, remains relatively low and inadequate to ensure full production capacity utilisation. It has led to low inflationary pressures during 2012 and is reflected in improved external position of the Albanian economy. The banking and financial system remains sound. Banks that operate in Albania are characterised by satisfactory liquidity and capital levels, and fit for financial intermediation. Transaction and risk indicators are also improving, as perceived in the financial markets and, following fluctuation in the first half of the year, interest rates have trended down. Given the above-mentioned circumstances, the monetary policy of the Bank of Albania has been increasingly stimulating. During the past year, we have sequentially eased the monetary conditions; after five consecutive key interest rate cuts, the cost of money in the economy reached its record low. Moreover, through our monetary operations, we have supplied the banking system with the liquidity it needs for smooth operation. Finally, through the review of regulatory norms and application of a prudent supervision of the banking system, we have managed to establish a stable financial environment for the country’s long-term development. Boosted confidence of the public in the banking system was followed by rapid increase of bank deposits, thus reducing reliance on foreign short-term financing.