Ardshinbank has once again assumed the role of Flagship Sponsor of the Annual Meeting and Business Forum of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), reaffirming its active engagement in the international financial cooperation and economic development agenda.

Held in Riga from June 5-7 under the theme “From Instability to Resilience: Economies in a Changing World,” the event brought together representatives of international financial institutions, investment organizations, the public sector, and the business community. Panel discussions and business meetings focused on the prospects for global economic development, innovative solutions, sustainable growth, digital transformation, and enhancing private sector competitiveness.

As part of the forum, a panel discussion dedicated entirely to Armenia, titled “From Resilience to Competitiveness: Armenia’s New Investment Vision,” took place with the participation of Hasmik Ghahramanyan, Member of the Board of Ardshinbank. She noted that the macroeconomic stability achieved in Armenia over the past decade, coupled with a favorable investment environment, has played a significant role in supporting the country’s economic progress.

“Over the past decade, Armenia’s loans-to-GDP ratio has increased from 40% to approximately 70%, making a substantial contribution to economic growth. At the same time, the banking sector’s contribution to future economic development will depend not only on the expansion of traditional lending volumes but also on increasing investments in infrastructure development and productivity enhancement,” she stated. She further emphasized that Ardshinbank actively participates in financing infrastructure projects, modernizing agriculture and industry, developing water management systems, and introducing advanced technological solutions, thereby strengthening the country’s GDP growth potential.

International experts participating in the discussion explored how artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually evolving from a tool for improving operational efficiency into a key driver of transformation across economies, businesses, and governance processes. The discussion also addressed the future development of generative and agentic AI systems, as well as the importance of responsible AI, transparency, governance, and human oversight.

Ardshinbank’s status as the Flagship Sponsor of the EBRD Annual Meeting and Business Forum once again highlighted the Bank’s international reputation and its commitment to supporting Armenia’s economic competitiveness, private sector development, promotion of innovative initiatives, and expansion of international cooperation.

It is worth noting that the 33rd EBRD Annual Meeting and Business Forum, held in Yerevan in 2024, was also sponsored by Ardshinbank as the Flagship Sponsor, positioning Armenia as one of the important platforms for international financial and economic dialogue.

Founded in 1991, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is owned by 77 countries, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank. Over the course of its operations, the EBRD has invested more than €220 billion to support private-sector development, sustainable economic growth, and economic transition across Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, and several African countries.

Armenia became a member of the EBRD on December 7, 1992, contributing €10 million to the Bank’s share capital. The main areas of cooperation between Armenia and the EBRD include energy, transport, and the financial sector.