The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the government of Kosovo are strengthening their cooperation with the aim of helping the government’s institutions to support infrastructure upgrades, the green economy transition, regional integration and the private sector.

The EBRD announces that the cumulative value of these potential projects, which are in line with the EBRD's strategy for Kosovo, is estimated to reach around 400 million euros in the period up to 2027.

The communiqué states that the President of the EBRD, Odile Renaud-Basso, and the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, signed a memorandum of understanding today on the sidelines of the Western Balkan Investment Summit 2024, to provide a framework for this cooperation.

"As part of the agreement, the EBRD and the government of Kosovo have identified several priority projects in areas of key importance, including road and railway infrastructure, wastewater and solid-waste-management projects, renewable energy and telecommunication" it is said in the announcement.

Meanwhile, potential cooperation to support a more competitive and inclusive private sector will be aimed at developing tailored financial products and policy reform.

Technical assistance may also be provided to enhance the investment climate and economic governance in the country. EBRD President Odile Renaud-Basso said: “Kosovo faces significant needs spanning both public and private sectors and we aim to support them every step of the way. We have ambitious targets in numerous areas that can be fulfilled through a strong and successful partnership with the government. This agreement underlines our intention to deliver on our key strategic objectives in Kosovo.”

Prime Minister of Kosovo Albin Kurti said: “Our government is committed to closing infrastructural gaps in Kosovo and boosting economic development. The memorandum of understanding signed today demonstrates our commitment to increased investment across diverse sectors, including transport, environment and energy, which will lead to accelerated economic growth and an enhanced quality of life for our citizens.”

The EBRD had a strong year in Kosovo in 2023, investing €81 million through 16 projects, with almost half of the funding directed to green projects. A significant portion of the funds was committed to addressing the needs of the public sector in Kosovo, with €20 million for the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant in the city of Ferizaj to prevent pollution and cut greenhouse gas emissions. To date, the EBRD has invested almost €680 million in Kosovo through over 100 projects.