The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo reviewed final preparations for Kosovo’s application to join the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) during Governor Ahmet Ismaili’s meeting with Jeton Zulfaj, Kosovo’s chief negotiator with the European Union. Formal submission to the European Payments Council remains ahead. Previously approved amendments to legislation on preventing money laundering and combating terrorist financing support compliance with the application requirements. Discussions emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement with EU institutions, member states and European partners during the review and assessment stages. The meeting also addressed alignment of financial sector legislation and regulation with EU law, including reform commitments under the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, for which Zulfaj is Kosovo’s national coordinator. The European Commission’s recommendations in its 2026 Kosovo Report provide a guide for further alignment priorities. Ismaili also reviewed progress in developing the TIPS Clone (TIPS-K) instant payment system as part of the ongoing modernization of Kosovo’s payment infrastructure.
Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo reviews final SEPA application preparations with Kosovo’s chief EU negotiator
The Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo reviewed final preparations for Kosovo’s Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) application with the country’s chief EU negotiator, Jeton Zulfaj. Submission to the European Payments Council remains pending following earlier approval of amendments to legislation on money laundering and terrorist financing. Discussions emphasized diplomatic support during assessment and alignment of financial sector legislation with EU law.