The European Union on Thursday asked Kosovo for a rather long transition period for the implementation of the new Regulation of the Central Bank of Kosovo (CBK), since according to the bloc, there is a risk of complicating the lives of the citizens of the communities, especially the Serbian ones, due to "lack of prior consultation ". The EU requested that this issue be addressed in dialogue.
The Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo, Besnik Bislimi, on Wednesday confirmed the Government's support for the new CBK Regulation, despite international pressure to postpone the execution of the decision. However, Bislimi has admitted that instead of punitive measures, the Government will invest in information and education during the "transition period". The CBK regulation, which came into force today, foresees that the euro will be the only currency in Kosovo.
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Letter to the Reader — Why We're Asking for Your Support ContributeThe EU has said that the short transition period for the implementation of the Regulation, "combined with the lack of information and practical solutions for all affected communities, risks seriously complicating their lives".
"The European Union takes into account the Regulation of the Central Bank of Kosovo, which is expected to enter into force today. The Regulation aims to increase the transparency of financial flows, ensure financial stability and fight money laundering and counterfeiting. The EU notes that the Regulation will also affect the financial support that Kosovo Serbs receive from Serbia. The EU is concerned about the consequences that this decision may have on the daily lives of Kosovo Serbs and other communities throughout Kosovo due to the lack of prior consultation, especially about its impact on schools and hospitals, given the apparent lack of alternatives at this moment", says the EU's response.
"The EU asks Kosovo to ensure a fairly long transition period and to find a negotiated solution to this issue within the dialogue facilitated by the EU", continues their reaction.