Siniša Mali

Deputy Governor Dardan Fusha at the IMF - World Bank Group Constituencies' meeting Key takeaways of the discussions: – Global and regional economic developments, particularly in CESEE countries – Positive evaluation of Kosovo's IMF program, highlighting successful reforms and benefits from SBA and RSF instruments – Challenges like inflation reduction, geopolitical tensions, and their impact on trade and supply chains – The importance of stable institutions, effective governance, and prudent policymaking – Transition to new technologies for productivity growth and sustainable financing. Read the full news here 🔗 https://shorturl.at/nhkVr

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To improve the satisfaction with public services, trust in institutions and to enhance the policy making process; then keep asking ❓ What do citizens 👥 businesses 🏬 and public servants 💼 think about public services and institutions ❓

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Live from Paris, the Western Balkans Competitiveness Data Hub is launched and available to the public! This Data Hub showcases the progress of the economies of the WB6, and the Western Balkans as a whole, over time and toward aligning with the OECD - OCDE and EU standards. As Federal Coordinator for the Western Balkans Competitiveness Outlook 2024 report, I had a privilege to contribute to the data gathering process for the level of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It brings me much joy to see the report and the data hub running! Hopefully, the data and the recommendations will be put to good use and improve policy making across 15 policy dimensions. #datahub #oecd #competitivenessoutlook #westernbalkans

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October 15, 2024, Albania marked an important milestone in its journey towards European Union membership with the holding of the Second Intergovernmental Conference to begin negotiations for Cluster 1 "Fundamentals." This development is not merely a procedural step but a deep commitment to advancing reforms in justice, public administration, and the fight against corruption. This moment is a testament to the tireless efforts of all those who have contributed to this process, and it reminds us that European integration is not just a political aspiration but a fundamental change that affects the lives of every Albanian citizen. As we move forward, we must remain united to ensure that this process is successful by maintaining our focus on reform, institutional improvement, and strengthening the rule of law. Albania is writing a new chapter in its history, and together with our citizens and European partners, we must be ready to face any challenge this journey brings. #AlbaniaInEU #IntergovernmentalConference #FundamentalsChapterGroup #EuropeanFuture

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The Conference was organized in partnership with the Union of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Albania. The Regional Challenge Fund (RCF) enhances the sustainable competitiveness of businesses in the Western Balkans 6 on the way to the EU single market by financing vocational education and training providers addressing skill needs in cooperation with companies. The RCF presents a unique financial mechanism financed by the German development cooperation, co-financed by the Swiss, and implemented by the German Development Bank KfW and Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum. #bashkimiidhomavetëtregtisëdheindustrisësëshqipërisë #wb6cif #MEKI #ministriaeekonomisëkulturësdheinovacionit

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🚨 29 out of 38 municipalities in Kosovo have seen a decline in population 🚨 📉 Between 2011 and 2024, the majority of municipalities have experienced a decrease, with only 9 showing growth. The municipality with the highest increase? Fushë-Kosova, gaining over 29,000 residents! 🚀👥 🔝 Growing municipalities also include Prishtina and Ferizaj, while most others are struggling with the challenges of a declining population trend.

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My latest article for China Observers in Central and Eastern Europe (CHOICE) focuses on China's transactional engagement with the #WesternBalkans. The example of 🇷🇸 vs the rest shows that countries that support 🇨🇳 (geo-)politically could be rewarded with economic benefits and vice-versa - those that open the door large for economic cooperation enjoy 🇨🇳 (geo-)political support.

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#SustainableEnergy requires all hands on deck. It's complex, it's technical, and together with United Nations ESCAP we at United Nations Economic Commission for Europe UNECE Sustainable Energy can make a difference for our Member States!

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The Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of the Republic of Kosovo, Mr. Dardan Fusha, and his team had the pleasure of welcoming World Bank officials, led by Ms. Martha Martinez Licetti. This productive and welcoming meeting aimed to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation and support. Discussions focused on assessing potential areas for World Bank engagement in the private and financial sectors, with a particular emphasis on: – Strengthening cooperation with the CBK – Aligning Kosovo’s regulations with SEPA – Addressing climate-related risks in the financial sector – Green financing strategies – Insurance supervision and IT functions New opportunities for support were also explored, including strengthening regulatory frameworks for access to finance, consumer protection, and innovative payment solutions. Deputy Governor Fusha expressed sincere appreciation for the World Bank’s ongoing support and highlighted its significant contributions to advancing Kosovo’s financial sector. Both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together to strengthen financial resilience and promote economic development in the country. Full news 🔗 https://shorturl.at/Dgumo

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👏Another productive meeting in Brussels, focusing on strengthening regional #defence cooperation and exploring ways to boost participation in the European Defence Fund (#EDF). Great discussions on how we can work together to bolster security across Europe! 🤝🇪🇺 #EUDefence #RegionalCooperation #Defence #Security

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Happy to share my latest work, thanks to Aspen Institute Germany! My paper looks into malign foreign influence & how actors like China & Russia may exploit cybersecurity weaknesses in the WB6 to destabilize democracy via disinformation campaigns. Kosovar Centre for Security Studies (KCSS) #Cybersecurity #CyberResilience

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On the last days of August, Bulgaria issued its largest amount of debt at one time and offered its first USD denominated bond in 22 years. All of this was done as the financial markets were preparing for rate cuts in Europe and the US. Here is my take on what this means for us and if the timing of these issues were right.

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#wetlands are important habitats for the #fauna and make our landscapes beautiful. They also have an immense value in mitigating the impact of #floods and other weather based #hazards that sadly make frequently the news with deadly and damaging disasters. UNDP Serbia in partnership with Sida and the Ministry of Environmental protection is promoting a national campaign in #Serbia showing the multiple benefits of protecting and valuing wetlands. #climatechange #naturebasedsolutions #UNDP #SIDA #ecosystems #biodiversity

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🌐 Advancing Digital Transformation in Local Governments: Insights from the Western Balkans Our latest policy paper, "Empowering Progress with Digital Transition in Western Balkan and Moldova Local Governments," authored by Enrriko Kapiti, offers a deep dive into enhancing digital capabilities within local governments. Enrriko, an intern at KDZ - Centre for Public Administration Research and a student of the Erasmus Mundus Master of Science in Public Sector Innovation and eGovernance, brings fresh perspectives on the necessity of digital skills in public administration. Here are the essential takeaways: 1. **Identifying the Digital Skills Gap**: The report pinpoints a critical lack of digital competencies among local government staff, underlining the need for targeted training programs. 2. **Key Training Initiatives**: Institutions like the Albanian School of Public Administration and the Serbian National Academy of Public Administration are crucial, offering courses from basic IT skills to advanced digital topics. 3. **Innovative Learning Platforms**: The NALAS e-Academy initiative stands out by providing customized online courses tailored specifically for local government officials. 4. **Importance of Collaboration**: Effective digital transformation requires joint efforts among local and central governments, the EU, businesses, and academia. 5. **Future Directions**: Anticipated upgrades to digital education platforms are essential for closing the digital skills gap in the region. This report not only highlights the challenges faced but also outlines strategic paths forward, emphasizing digital education's transformative power in local governance. 🔗 For the report, click here: [https://lnkd.in/dsPAbVfV] #DigitalTransformation #LocalGovernment #WesternBalkans #PublicAdministration #DigitalSkills #SmartCities Image created with AI.

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In a world where the impacts of climate change are felt across every facet of life, from our cities to our countryside, the shift to sustainable practices offers a path toward resilience, innovation, and prosperity. USAID EBRD BPB DT Global Kosovo Investment and Finance Network

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The Battle for Majdanpek: Citizens' Struggle Against Corporate Exploitation and Environmental Degradation The small town of Majdanpek, nestled in eastern Serbia, has become a focal point of conflict between local citizens and the Chinese mining company Dwi Zing. The town, historically dependent on mining, has seen its landscape and social fabric significantly altered since the arrival of Dwi Zing. While the promise of economic development was initially welcomed, the reality has been starkly different, leading to a protracted struggle for environmental and social justice. Dwi Zing's operations have expanded rapidly, often disregarding environmental regulations and community concerns. The aggressive extraction processes have led to severe environmental degradation, including deforestation, water pollution, and air quality deterioration. The local population (14,000 citizens + 6000 Chinses), which once depended on the pristine natural resources for their livelihood, now faces health hazards, such as respiratory problems and skin conditions, as well as the loss of agricultural land. The unchecked mining activities have also led to landslides and other geological disturbances, further endangering the community. Moreover, the influx of mining workers has put additional strain on the town's services and facilities, further exacerbating the situation. In addition to environmental and health issues, the local infrastructure has also suffered. Roads have been damaged by heavy machinery, and public spaces have been neglected. Half of the town's buildings and hotels are now property of Dwi Zing, effectively turning Majdanpek into a company town. The citizens of Majdanpek have not remained silent. They have organized protests, formed advocacy groups, and sought legal recourse to protect their homes and environment organized around NGO #NuDau. Despite their efforts, they face significant challenges. The company's deep pockets and political connections have often tilted the scales of justice against the locals. Reports of intimidation, harassment, and violence against activists have become commonplace, creating an atmosphere of fear and repression. In a particularly egregious instance, several local leaders and activists were arrested during a peaceful protest. These arrests, widely seen as an attempt to stifle dissent, have sparked outrage both locally and internationally. Human rights organizations have condemned the actions, calling for the immediate release of those detained and an investigation into the abuses. The struggle in Majdanpek highlights the broader issues of environmental justice and corporate accountability in regions rich in natural resources but lacking strong governance frameworks. As the world continues to grapple with the environmental crises, the voices from Majdanpek echo a universal call for justice and stewardship of our planet's resources. EARTHWORKS

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Welcome Serbia to investment-grade Arena!!! Faster announcement than NBS and Ministry of Finance :) It is important to stay vigilant, fiscally responsible and not to use the momentum for excessive borrowing. Remember, "falling angels" are not uncommon scenarios. Four eyes decision makers! #creditrating #sovereign #investmentgrade #progress #markets #bonds #debt

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IMF🤝STS. The focus is on the implementation of the National Revenue Strategy until 2030, in terms of ​​tax administration.

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Public procurement is in the moment interesting topic for citizens of Montenegro with some procedures which raise attention from public subjects. Competition and public procurement have common goal - to guarantee higher quality of services provided by the state and economic subjects for citizens. Maria Pilar Canedo Arrillaga wrote about manipulation with public procurement procedure and consequences for the society. Great summary for bid rigging importance on Vijesti Online!

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