Information technology  In 2015, the aspect of Information Technology saw several achievements. The AFISaR system started to operate. It is a central electronic register for the documentation of each element involved in the issue and transactions with securities by the Albanian state. Other achievements include: -  automation of the reporting system for banking activity indicators;  -  integration and optimisation of the IT network utilisation, reducing therefore operational costs of the Bank of Albania;  -  automation of accounting transactions in Bank of Albania branches and improving information processing and storing capacities. xii. Internal audit  In 2015, in addition to planned audits, auditing and non-auditing commitments were carried out, upon the request of the Supervisory Council, Audit Committee, Administrators and Inspector General. Another important development in this regard was the Quality Assessment for the Control [Internal Audit] Department at the Bank of Albania by the De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB). Conducted for the first time, the assessment serves as an important development plan for strengthening the audit activity in the future. During 2015, nine full-scope audits were conducted. In addition, three full-scope audits started in 2015, but were completed in the first months of 2016, bringing the total number to 12. The findings and recommendations of each audit have been addressed to the heads of the respective units, the Administrators of the Bank of Albania, the Audit Committee and the Supervisory Council, as part of the periodic reporting by the Inspector General. xiii.
They reflect Supervisory Council’s monetary policy decisions, the underlying factors and expected results. The periodic reports of the Bank of Albania publish comprehensive analysis on economic and financial developments, the outlook for the short and long term, and the performance of the banking sector along with the risks facing the financial stability of Albania. Events organised with representatives of the banking system, business community, specialised international institutions are another aspect of our communication with the public. Examples include the Forum on “Promoting credit growth” in April 2015, “Albania Financial Forum III” organised with the International Monetary Fund in June 2015, and a meeting with the banking system discussing on “The economy and banks: present and future challenges” in September 2015. viii. Public education  The launching of the Museum of the Bank of Albania was the main highlight in the area of public education. Designed as an inter-disciplinary museum, it integrates numismatic, historic and educational functions, which contribute to enhancing the financial literacy of the public in general and of the younger generation in particular. ix. European integration  Another important aspect of our work has been the contribution of the Bank of Albania in the context of approximation to the European Union. The Bank of Albania has intensified its cooperation with the European Central Bank, central banks of the European System, and European structures that regulate financial aspects in the EU.