Going beyond the diversity of the region, at this point I would like to underline two characteristics of the financial system of practically all countries in the region, which are the result of their past, but will also shape their future developments. The first is extensive currency substitution.
I thank the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow for inviting me to address this distinguished gathering. I do see many bright young prospective managers in the audience. As you step out of the portals of the Institute, you will be faced with the challenge of managing some or the other key aspect of our economy, be it agriculture, industry or services.