The country can be proud of having achieved impressive economic and institutional convergence in such a short time. Slovakia’s success shows that EU accession and the adoption of the euro can create considerable opportunities – opportunities that can be seized, or wasted. Slovakia is a positive example of a country that has seized the opportunities of European integration through fundamental institutional reforms.
Lastly, we sincerely hope that under the leadership of President Kabbaj and the Board of Directors and with the joint efforts of the management and all the staff, the African Development Bank Group will overcome potential difficulties, and, by pursuing earnest reforms, make new contributions to the economic and social development in Africa. Thank you. 2  BIS Review 40/2004