The Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo (CBK), Mr. Ahmet Ismaili, accompanied by Deputy Governor Mr. Milot Cakaj, held a meeting with representatives of the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), Mr. Thomas Adams, Country Manager responsible for Germany and Kosovo, and Mr. Denis Weerts, Senior Credit Risk Manager. The discussions focused on recent developments in the financial sector, with emphasis on microfinance and non-bank financial institutions (MFI/NBFI), the advancement of financial inclusion, and the structural and regulatory reforms undertaken by the CBK.

At the opening of the meeting, Governor Ismaili presented the latest developments in the financial sector, including microfinance and non-bank institutions, highlighting the role of these institutions in expanding access to finance for specific segments of the economy and the population. He noted that the sector operates with a unique business model that supports lending for micro-enterprises and individuals with limited access to traditional banking services, while maintaining a low level of non-performing loans and a stable risk profile.

Governor Ismaili also informed the CEB representatives about the strengthening of the regulatory and supervisory framework for MFIs and NBFIs, including revised licensing and capital requirements, enhanced supervisory practices, and ongoing anti-money laundering (AML) activities. He emphasized that the CBK has advanced its internal organizational structure to ensure more effective supervision of these institutions, in line with international standards and the CBK’s strategic objectives.

Discussions further addressed progress in the broader financial-sector modernization agenda. Governor Ismaili presented the CBK’s digitalization initiatives, including reforms in the payments system, preparations for SEPA integration process, the development of the TIPS Clone platform for instant payments, and CBK’s expanded efforts in financial literacy. These initiatives aim to strengthen financial inclusion, improve efficiency, and support the long-term development of Kosovo’s financial infrastructure.

Mr. Adams and Mr. Weerts commended the CBK for its progress in strengthening the supervisory framework, promoting financial inclusion, and advancing digital transformation. They reaffirmed CEB’s continued interest in supporting sustainable development, social impact, and inclusive finance in Kosovo.

Governor Ismaili expressed his appreciation to the Council of Europe Development Bank, emphasizing that the CBK highly values partnerships that support institutional reforms, the modernization of the financial sector, and the improvement of access to finance for citizens and businesses. He reaffirmed the CBK’s readiness to continue close cooperation with the CEB through future projects and initiatives aligned with the CBK’s strategic priorities.

The meeting underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to reinforcing financial inclusion, regulatory practices, and reforms that contribute to the sustainable economic development of the Republic of Kosovo.

Lajmi i kaluar The CBK delegation conducts official visit to the Bank of Italy as part of the SREP implementation process
The CBK delegation conducts official visit to the Bank of Italy as part of the SREP implementation process
Lajmi i radhës Governor Ismaili at the PECK III closing conference: The Project’s results have influenced the modernization of CBK’s supervisory approach and the advancement of the regulatory framework in line with European standards
Governor Ismaili at the PECK III closing conference: The Project’s results have influenced the modernization of CBK’s supervisory approach and the advancement of the regulatory framework in line with European standards