American Ambassador: Kosovo needs a dynamic private sector

Speaking at the annual meeting of the American Economic Ode General Assembly in Kosovo, Ambassador Havenier said 2021 was a good year for the Kosovo economy and that the private sector is the main driver of economic growth. He stressed the importance of a dynamic private sector, as well as the need to strengthen dialogue with the business community, and use the power of investments by the diaspora.

The one among the top priorities of our Embassy is supporting Kosovo's European and Euro-Atlantic trajectory. Kosovo is a small market, but has the potential to turn into a centre of trade and investment in Southeast Europe,” said Ambassador Havenier, adding that the United States Embassy supports initiatives that create more efficient cross-border trade and lead to a more competitive and inclusive Kosovo economy.

Through a media communique from the American Economic Oda of Kosovo (OEAK) said that in addition, the American ambassador said that as long as the public sector has the power to achieve many goals, it is important to leave the specific sectors of the economy to let the private sector do its best.

Finally, Ambassador Havenier called on companies in Kosovo to promote and implement preventive measures such as facial masks, social distance and vaccine within their staff and clients, while the Omitron variant continues to be present and is spreading rapidly to Kosovo.

The outgoing president of the Board of Oda Governors, Ilir Ibrahimi, expressed gratitude to all members, the US Embassy, as well as his executive director and team for continued support and co-operation over the years. Ibrahimi said that despite the frequent changes in Government, the American Oda has stood firm in its positions, offering to be a partner to each government, without compromising in its members' Avokim and protection. He said with its 210 members, Oda American proudly enjoys the reputation of a professional and powerful business association.

Executive Director Arian Zeka said that over the past decade, the organisation has increased almost three times in terms of membership, finance and staff, adding that the more powerful the organisation has been done over the years, the more it has realized that it must remain faithful to the values and principles of the United States of America, Washington, and the individual values that everyone in the American Ode represents. He thanked outgoing members of staff for their guidance and oversight, the US Embassy for their support and Kosovo institutions for their partnership.