It is my considered view that for young economists, the comments and encouragement provided by persons of this calibre served to strengthen, over time, the quality of research produced within the region. As policy makers, we recognise that focused, timely and relevant research is important for good policy-making.
In the region, we continue to face many economic challenges in a global environment that is not always favourable. As we speak, there is uncertainty created by international developments such as the discussions on Brexit, protectionism and threats of trade wars, the risks posed by geopolitical risks to oil prices and rising interest rates.