Governor Ismaili addresses the Regional IMF Workshop on Special Data Dissemination Standard: A key step towards enhanced data practices

The Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo (CBK), Mr Ahmet Ismaili delivered the opening speech at the Regional International Monetary Fund (IMF) Workshop on the Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS), marking a significant milestone in Kosovo’s journey towards enhanced data reporting and dissemination practices. This event, spanning five days, brings together representatives from Kosovo, Montenegro, Albania, Slovenia, alongside IMF experts, to exchange knowledge and experiences in advancing towards SDDS. Organized by the IMF, in cooperation with the CBK and with financial support from the Government of Japan, this significant gathering underscores our joint commitment to improving data reporting and dissemination practices.

Governor Ismaili, accompanied by Mr. Keisuke Yamanaka, Charge d’Affairs of the Embassy of Japan in Kosovo, and Mr. Jesus Gonzalez-Garcia, IMF expert, emphasized the importance of transitioning from the Enhanced-General Data Dissemination System (GDDS) to the more advanced SDDS in accordance with best international practices. This advancement aligns closely with CBK’s Strategic Plan and its objectives for enhancing internal processes and practices.

Taking place in Prishtina, this learning and experience-sharing event offers participants from different countries a unique opportunity to identify and evaluate existing gaps and formulate work plans aimed at advancing data dissemination standards. The objective of this transformative workshop, will lead to greater transparency and efficiency in data reporting for many institutions in our region.

Expressing gratitude to the IMF for its unwavering support, Governor Ismaili underscored the significance of collaboration with institutions such as the IMF, which are instrumental in supporting these essential reforms. Additionally, Governor Ismaili extended his appreciation to the Japanese Government for its invaluable support, which significantly contributes to CBK’s efforts, as well as those of other regional institutions, in data reporting through this project.

Finally, the Governor also highlighted the importance of inter-institutional coordination with agencies like the Kosovo Agency of Statistics, emphasizing the necessity of knowledge sharing and close cooperation, thereby reaffirming CBK’s commitment to fostering greater data transparency with the ultimate objective of supporting Kosovo’s financial stability.