President Werner Hoyer underlined the Bank's important role in supporting sustainable growth, innovation and jobs in Europe and beyond. In 2011, the EIB provided its highest ever financial contribution to the real economy with €60 billion disbursed to its clients.
At the end of last year, the Bank’s outstanding loans amounted to around €395 billion, more than the loan portfolio of all other multilateral financial institutions combined. Around €13 billion went to small and medium sized enterprises, while some €18 billion were invested in projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions and supporting the EU’s global role in fighting climate change.
With around €10 billion, the EIB supported the so-called “knowledge triangle” of research, innovation and education. “These areas are absolutely essential for creating a modern economy and key elements of any growth strategy”, said EIB-President, Werner Hoyer.
In 2011, the EIB – the world’s largest supranational bond issuer - raised €76 billion, almost half of it (46 per cent) with non-European investors, which shows the continued trust and confidence in the EIB and in Europe. Regarding the overall slowdown of investment activity in Europe, Hoyer said: “This has once again highlighted the importance of public lenders such as the EIB”.
The EIB will continue to concentrate its action on projects and sectors that make a significant contribution to Europe’s competitiveness. “Lending to SMEs is clearly a priority for us”, Hoyer said.
Press release
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