Kosovo Donor Meeting April 2006

In conjunction with UNMIK and the PISG, the European Commission and the World Bank held a donor meeting in Pristina on 5 April 2006. The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Antonio de Lecea, Director, International Economic and Financial Affairs, European Commission and Mr. Kanthan Shankar, World Bank Resident Representative, Kosovo. The meeting focused on Kosovo’s priority investment program outlined in the the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), which provides a consolidated budget outlook and prioritized public investment program, and related budgetary needs. Financing needs for 2007 and beyond stemming from the final status outcome would be considered following the conclusion of the negotiations at an appropriate forum. During the meeting, UNMIK and PISG discussed the current economic situation, achievements and the remaining agenda in economic and institutional reform. They also presented the MTEF and outlined expenditure priorities and near-term financing needs. Given the importance of the sector, the agenda also included a discussion on issues in the energy sector. Improved donor coordination and harmonization was also discussed.