However, some are still dragging their feet and are yet to adjust their rates. While we commend the banks that have responded positively, we call upon those who have not done so to act in a positive and prompt manner in order to make credit more affordable to the majority of our people. This in turn will lead to the growth of the productive sector and in particular Agriculture and the SME sectors, which are the engine for economic growth of our country. Finally, let me extend my gratitude to the Board of Directors and the Managing Director of Stanbic Bank for inviting me to be with you on this auspicious occasion of the opening of this branch. It now gives me great pleasure and honour to declare Mulungushi Branch of Stanbic Bank Zambia Limited officially open and I thank you for your attention. 2  BIS Review 152/2009
In implementing the road map, it is vital that all stakeholders in the payment system understands the significance of payment systems, their impact on financial stability and take ownership and leadership. Most central banks at some point or other have been owners, operators, catalysts, overseers and users of the payment system. Over the years, central banks have given up their ownership and  2  BIS Review 66/2006  operator’s role and, in some cases, even the catalyst role. Banks and financial institutions and even the corporates should play an important role in shaping the national payment system in Sri Lanka. Let me conclude now by giving an important message. Payment reforms help to adopt best practices by all stakeholders. With or without payment system reforms, banks and financial institutions should be able to meet their payment obligations. Some of the benefits enjoyed by banks and customers over the years will no longer be there under the CIT system. The public too has to make adjustments in their payment practices and ensure that there are funds in their accounts when cheques are issued. All stakeholders should change their past practices and fall in line with reforms which are aimed at improving facilities. Once again, I thank the Royal Bankers Club for inviting me and extend my good wishes for all its future activities. BIS Review 66/2006  3