From 5 to 7 June 2026, in my capacity as Alternate Governor for San Marino, I had the honour of representing the Republic of San Marino at the 35th Annual Meeting and Business Forum of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), held in Riga, Latvia. The event brought together more than 2,000 participants, including government representatives, policymakers, international institutions and business leaders from across the globe.
This important gathering once again confirmed its role as a leading platform for international dialogue and cooperation, at a time when the global economic environment is characterised by complexity and rapid change.
This year’s theme, “From volatility to versatility – economies innovating in a changing world,” resonated strongly throughout the discussions.
Across plenary sessions and the Business Forum, the focus was on:
- strengthening economic resilience;
- accelerating innovation and digital transformation;
- advancing sustainable growth and the green transition;
- enhancing energy security and long-term competitiveness.
Engagement and Dialogue
This meeting offered a valuable opportunity to engage with the President of the EBRD, Ms Odile Renaud-Basso, senior Bank officials, and fellow governors from a wide range of countries. These exchanges enabled meaningful discussions and thoughtful reflection on the EBRD’s distinctive role as a trusted partner in fostering dialogue and cooperation across its regions of operation.
I greatly appreciated the bilateral meeting with the Director of Stakeholder Engagement, Mr Edward Bannerman, which provided an important occasion to exchange views and further strengthen institutional relationships.
Such engagement is essential. It reaffirms the importance of maintaining open, constructive and forward-looking dialogue among nations and institutions, particularly at a time marked by rapid change and heightened global uncertainty. Indeed, in times such as these, international dialogue remains one of the most effective tools for building trust, ensuring stability, and promoting shared prosperity.
The Enduring Role of the EBRD
The Annual Meeting in Riga underscored the vital contribution of the EBRD in supporting economic development, strengthening institutions, and promoting the values of democracy, the rule of law and open, market-based economies.
Over the years, the Bank has played a crucial role in helping countries build resilient, inclusive and sustainable economies, while encouraging the conditions in which private enterprise and innovation can flourish.
Its distinctive model, combining investment, policy engagement and technical expertise—continues to deliver tangible results across its regions of operation.
Ukraine: A Test of Solidarity
A major focus of the discussions in Riga was the continued support for Ukraine’s economic resilience and reconstruction, an issue of central importance for the international community.
I was pleased to participate in the side event “Charting the Path to Ukraine’s Reconstruction,” which highlighted both the scale of the challenge and the need for coordinated international action.
The EBRD’s leadership in mobilising financial resources and supporting Ukraine’s recovery is both timely and indispensable. It represents a powerful demonstration of solidarity and shared responsibility, and a reminder of what can be achieved through collective commitment.
Innovation, Investment and Cooperation
Throughout the forum, a consistent message emerged:
the future depends on our ability to:
- mobilise private sector investment;
- foster innovation and entrepreneurship;
- strengthen international cooperation.
The EBRD continues to play a central role in this process, bridging public and private sectors and helping economies adapt to evolving global conditions.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 Annual Meeting in Riga was not only an opportunity for reflection but also a call to action. It emphasised the need to translate dialogue into concrete policies and investments that can:
- enhance resilience;
- promote inclusive growth;
- support sustainable development;
- create opportunities for future generations.
As Alternate Governor for the Republic of San Marino, I remain firmly committed to supporting these objectives and to contributing to the shared efforts of the international community.
At a time of global uncertainty, its mission, to advance open markets, support democratic values and foster sustainable development, remains more relevant than ever.
It was a privilege to contribute to this important dialogue and to represent the Republic of San Marino in such a distinguished international forum.