The Governor of the National Bank of Georgia, Natia Turnava, took part in a panel discussion held within the framework of the conference dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Bank of Albania in Tirana.

The international conference was opened with welcoming remarks by the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama; President of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde; Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Kristalina Georgieva; and Governor of the Bank of Albania, Gent Sejko.

The participants of the conference discussed current challenges facing the global economy, financial fragmentation, and the importance of regional cooperation.

Natia Turnava took part in the panel discussion titled “A World of Less Trade and Tighter Capital: Reshaping the Global Economy?” as a keynote speaker, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation and financial collaboration.

During the discussion, the participants reflected on the evolving global trade and financial landscape, including the impact of geoeconomic fragmentation and the re-routing of capital flows on emerging economies.

In her address, the Governor of the National Bank of Georgia emphasized that in the context of a tightening international financial environment, deepening regional cooperation and adopting flexible economic strategies are of particular importance, as they serve as the foundation for enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of small and medium-sized economies.

She noted that, amid changing trade routes and the reorganization of supply chains, Georgia and its neighboring countries have chosen to strengthen ties and establish new partnerships.

“Historically, Georgia has served as a bridge between the economies of Europe and Asia. In recent years, this role has gained renewed importance, and through our policies, we are firmly committed to reinforcing it further. As a candidate country for EU membership, Georgia remains dedicated to advancing European integration, while continuing to fulfill its mission as a vital connecting link between Europe and Asia. The Middle Corridor has become a defining element of our regional transformation. Amid the re-routing of global supply chains, this corridor which connects Europe and Asia through the South Caucasus and Central Asia has acquired strategic momentum. This is clearly reflected in the deepening trade relations across our region,” stated Natia Turnava.

She further underlined that, alongside the expansion of trade and transport linkages, the demand for efficient, secure, and interoperable financial services is becoming increasingly critical. Therefore, the role of central bankers extends beyond maintaining stability to promoting regional cooperation among financial institutions and ensuring the interconnectivity of financial infrastructures that support this growing trade dynamic.

The conference marking the 100th anniversary of the Bank of Albania was organized jointly by the Bank of Albania and the Reinventing Bretton Woods Committee (RBWC). The international event was attended by the governors of the central banks of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Armenia, Slovenia, Malta, and Lithuania, as well as other high-level guests from around the world.