Earlier this month, the Mediterranean Bank Network (MBN), the non-profit banking organisation headquartered in Malta, together with the Centre for European Policy studies (CEPS), one of the most authoritative think tanks operating in the European Union, organised a round table seminar addressing the much discussed SME sector within the Mediterranean region.

The event, held within the CEPS Building in Place du Congres in Brussels, examined the state of play of SME financing in the region, and was well-attended by international banks, business communities and EU delegates. Speakers included representatives from the European Investment Bank, the European Commission, and Mediterranean investment networks including ANIMA, BusinessMed, United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, Oseo, and the Mediterranean Bank Network. On the local front, Malta was represented by Peter Sant from Bank of Valletta, the Mediterranean Bank Network’s Maltese member bank. BOV’s presentation outlined the bank’s outreach to the SME sector through its Malta network and overseas offices in Libya, Egypt, Tunisia and Italy.

Mediterranean Bank Network (MBN) has a physical presence in several Mediterranean countries represented by its member banks. The network markets the members regionally and enjoys the influence of forming part of a regional Euro Med banking association. MBN is therefore in a very strong position to regard itself as a voice for the Mediterranean financial services sector, hence its participation in several summits, conferences and seminars related to the Mediterranean region. More information about the MBN can be found on its corporate website www.medbanknet.com.