TIRANA, Oct. 19 /ATA/ – Albania’s central bank said on Monday that deposits and savings held in the country’s banking system remained safe and payment services continued to operate normally, despite damage to several bank branches and ATMs during recent youth protests in Tirana.
In a statement, the Bank of Albania said it was closely monitoring recent developments, stressing that the safety of citizens, bank customers and financial institution employees remained a priority.
“Payment services have continued to operate normally and without interruption, ensuring that the banking system can support business activity and meet households’ consumption needs,” the central bank said.
Damage to physical infrastructure at some bank branches did not affect the security of customer deposits or the financial stability of banks, it added, urging citizens not to worry about their savings.
The central bank said it remained in close contact with commercial banks and relevant institutions to monitor the situation and measures taken to protect employees, customers and banking infrastructure.
Temporary restrictions on services at certain branches were necessary to ensure the physical safety of staff and customers. The bank urged citizens and businesses to follow official notices from their banks and make greater use of alternative banking channels.
“The banking system is a vital pillar of the economy and citizens’ daily lives,” the statement said, noting that banks support households managing their savings, people receiving salaries and pensions, businesses paying employees and companies investing and creating jobs.
The Bank of Albania said it would continue to fulfil its mandate to maintain price and financial stability and ensure the safe and reliable operation of the banking system.
It also called on citizens exercising their right to peaceful protest to respect and protect the central bank, commercial banks, their premises, infrastructure and employees.
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