Governor of the CBK Meets with the New World Bank Director for Kosovo

The Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo (CBK), Mr. Ahmet Ismaili, together with the Deputy Governor Ms. Shileku-Shala and his colleagues, held an introductory meeting with the new World Bank (WB) Director for Kosovo, Ms. Carole Megevand, accompanied by her team.

During the meeting, Governor Ismaili congratulated Ms. Megevand on her new role and wished her success in advancing the World Bank’s projects and reforms in support of Kosovo’s economy.

Governor Ismaili informed Ms. Megevand about the latest developments in the financial sector, as well as the progress of reforms undertaken by the CBK to promote sustainable economic growth and strengthen the financial system.

The discussions focused on current developments in the financial sector, ongoing cooperation between the CBK and the World Bank, and the WB’s new programs to strengthen the financial sector, including relevant technical assistance dedicated to the CBK.

Governor Ismaili expressed his appreciation for the World Bank’s continuous support, highlighting the importance of this cooperation for achieving the CBK’s strategic objectives, particularly in the areas of legal and regulatory reforms, digitalization, capitalization of the financial sector, enhancing financial resilience, SEPA membership, and implementing the green agenda.

In this context, Ms. Megevand noted the progress made towards harmonizing Kosovo’s legal and regulatory framework with European Union standards, while the Governor briefed her on the preparations and current challenges in the process of applying for membership in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA).

Governor Ismaili emphasized the important role of the World Bank’s regional project for payment system modernization, particularly the development of Instant Payments through the Bank of Italy and their connection with the payment systems of the European Union and the European Central Bank after SEPA membership.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to continue close cooperation, acknowledging the results achieved so far from joint projects.