CEF Forum 2025 launched in Montenegro: Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Reform Implementation and European Integration
23/06/2025
The Vice-Governor of the Central Bank of Montenegro, Ms. Zorica Kalezić, officially opened the CEF Forum 2025 today, held under the theme “Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Reform Implementation and Impact.” This regional event, taking place in Bečići and organized by the Center of Excellence in Finance (CEF), has brought together high-level representatives of government institutions, international organisations, and experts in public finance, reforms, and European integration.
In her opening remarks, the Vice-Governor Kalezić expressed gratitude to the CEF for its continued contribution to strengthening public institutions in the region, emphasizing that strong institutions are crucial for a successful implementation of reforms and achieving tangible impact on the overall development of a society.
The Vice-Governor presented the reform milestones achieved by the Central Bank of Montenegro (CBCG) aimed at improving service quality for citizens and businesses and supporting Montenegro’s path toward the European Union. The key highlights included joining the SEPA system, developing a national instant payment system (TIPS clone), aligning the regulatory framework with EU standards, enhancing transparency, advancing sustainable finance, and adopting a new strategic plan for the 2025–2028 period.
“European integration is not merely a technical task for us, but a strategic commitment to stability, resilience, and societal prosperity,” Kalezić stated.
She stressed that institutions are the foundation of reforms only if they are professional, empowered, and aligned with modern values and practices. “That is why the CBCG places special emphasis on investing in people and knowledge. Without empowered institutions, there can be no strong state. The development of human resources, leadership, and organisational culture rooted in integrity, excellence, and accountability is our priority,” Kalezić highlighted.
The Forum continued with panel discussions that served as a platform for exchanging experiences and practical knowledge, as well as for formulating concrete recommendations for further strengthening of institutional capacities across Southeast Europe. As one of the speakers at the panels, Ms. Sanja Mrkić, Director of the Human Resources Directorate at the CBCG, emphasized the importance of building motivated and competent teams as the cornerstone of every successful and resilient institution.
The Forum was preceded by the CEF Governing Board meeting attended by the Vice-Governor Kalezić alongside other board members - finance ministers and central bank governors from the CEF member countries. During the meeting, the Board adopted the CEF’s 2024 Annual Report and discussed training plans and programs to be implemented in 2026.