The solution of the energy situation at the soonest time possible will provide positive impacts on the Albanian business, the soundness of public finances, the country’s sustainable economic development and the macroeconomic stability. Concluding this part, I would like to point out some other issues, which I think should be encompassed in the priority list of the country’s medium-term economic and financial development. The Albanian economy is leaving the status of a transition economy and is approaching to that of a developing economy. This qualitative step requires further deepening of structural reforms, enhancement of effectiveness of development policies and enlargement of the country’s absorbing capacities in terms of fostering the Albanian economy competitiveness at regional context and beyond it. I would highlight the constant trade deficit deepening, as an issue of the present and the future. Even though the current cross-border position of the country is not problematic, being materialised in such indicators as external debt, foreign reserve level or overall balance of payments position, I would point out that the rise of exports is not sufficient, particularly in the context of high reliability of the Albanian economy on remittances. The relatively high current deficit, around 7.6 percent of GDP, is another argument in this regard. The latter one, also in  2  BIS Review 80/2007  the presence of a fiscal deficit, increases our economy’s exposure and makes necessary the provision of foreign currency inflows of a more steady nature.
Experience-sharing sessions can also be organized for successful members to share their experiences in achieving cost efficiency and productivity improvements. As important as achieving cost efficiency is the need to raise the level of value creation and to find new areas of growth. This will require shifting resources to new areas of competitive advantage. In striving towards long-term competitiveness, SMEs should adopt best practices in their governance and risk management processes. An aptitude for hard work and prudent  4  BIS Review 90/2008  practices, the agility to adapt to changing conditions, perseverance and entrepreneurial skills and the ability for reinvention € these are the qualities that will enable SMEs to ride through the near term challenges and allow them to grow and enhance their contribution to our economy. Ladies and gentlemen, Today's seminar provides a platform for SMEs to widen their knowledge on the numerous financing arrangements offered by the banking institutions. Take advantage and benefit from this opportunity. On this note, I would like to congratulate the Association of Banks in Malaysia for organising this important seminar on "Enhancing SME Awareness on Access to Financing". I wish you a productive and successful seminar. BIS Review 90/2008  5