Prishtina, 6 May 2009
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Hashim Thaçi, in today’s press conference, emphasized the importance of Kosovo’s membership in the International Monetary Fund.
[The following is the full statement of Prime Minister Thaçi in today’s press conference].
Honorable members of the press,
Today, I am here to confirm that the membership process of the Republic of Kosovo in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has been accomplished successfully.
The Government of the Republic of Kosovo has full faith that in the coming days; official confirmation of membership in the IMF will be received.
On behalf of the government, I thank all the states which have participated in voting. At the moment of receiving official confirmation, we will inform you on the further steps that the state of Kosovo will undertake.
In addition, I can confirm with full conviction that at the beginning of next month, we believe that Kosovo will become a member of the World Bank.
We applied one year ago for membership in the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank and these two processes are gradually and successfully coming to an end for the Republic of Kosovo.
The doors are opening for Kosovo in the most important international institutions and this is a sign of respect and the assessment of the great work of democratic institutions; with transparency, the rule of law, an uncompromising fight against corruption and organized crime and the building of democratic order and respect for minority rights.
Membership of the Republic of Kosovo in the IMF represents another historic act for Kosovo and its European and Euro-Atlantic future. So, Kosovo, quickly, successfully and in a praiseworthy manner; is joining the family of countries that aim for long-term stability and a clear economic perspective. Membership is a clear message of the secure future of Kosovo, its people and financial and technical support.
Kosovo’s membership in the International Monetary Fund opens the doors for easier access to its programs. The government is continuing its active, dynamic and effective commitment to realizing Kosovo’s membership in other important organizations as well, such as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
