Thus, the next big step for Europe will be to establish a capital markets union. Strengthening capital markets and integrating them across borders will deliver at least two major takeaways. First, it will improve access to funding for small and medium-sized enterprises especially, thus sowing the seeds for stronger and more resilient economic growth.
It is my hope that this conference shall provide participants with key lessons on how to achieve a rural Africa where people have access to sustainable financial services for economic development. I also reiterate that it is only through the concerted efforts of all players, governments, development agencies, donors, regulators and service providers that we will be able to deliver on this vision.