The Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo (CBK), Ahmet Ismaili, participated as a speaker at the closing conference of the Council of Europe's Project Against Economic Crime (PECK III), emphasizing that the closing marks an important moment for strengthening financial integrity, transparency and the rule of law in the country.
The results have directly influenced the modernization of the CBK's supervisory approach and the alignment of the regulatory framework with European standards.
Governor Ismaili underlined that PECK III has not been simply technical support, but a strategic partnership that has strengthened institutional capacities to combat money laundering, terrorist financing and increase the integrity of the financial system.
He focused on the significant transformation of the philosophy of supervision, moving from a formal compliance model to a comprehensive approach based on risk assessment.
According to him, this new approach is essential for maintaining financial stability and protecting consumers.
Also, Governor Ismaili said that the CBK, thanks to the support of PECK III, has significantly advanced in modernizing the risk assessment framework, has integrated new supervisory technologies and has finalized a comprehensive manual for risk-based supervision, including the virtual assets sector.
One of the main results is the adoption of the new AML/CFT Regulation, harmonized with EU and FATF standards, which marks an important step in Kosovo's preparation for the SEPA process.
The Regulation on information accompanying transfers of funds has also been harmonized with EU requirements, increasing the traceability and transparency of virtual asset transfers. Inter-institutional cooperation has also been significantly intensified, strengthening the implementation of the travel rule and the integrity of the financial market.
Governor Ismaili further emphasized that these results establish a solid basis for the upcoming assessment by MONEYVAL, which will be an important test of Kosovo's financial integrity.
In concluding his address, Governor Ismaili emphasized that the CBK remains fully committed to deepening structural reforms in the financial system, to advancing compliance with EU and global standards, and to guaranteeing sustainable stability, integrity and monetary and financial sovereignty of the country. He expressed gratitude to the European Union, the Council of Europe and all partners who have contributed to this transformational process, underlining the importance of continuing this cooperation in the coming phases.
Meanwhile, in the continuation of the works, the role of the CBK in the PECK III project was also discussed. In this panel discussion, the Head of the PPP/LFT Compliance Division, Mr. Ilir Hasani, discussed the strengthening of the regime against money laundering and terrorist financing, the progress, challenges and lessons learned from this project.
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo reaffirms that protecting financial integrity and strengthening risk-based supervision remain key priorities, in order to ensure a modern, safe and reliable financial system for the citizens and the country's economy.
