Republic of Kosovo Joins ICSID

The Convention on the Settlement of Investment Disputes between States and Nationals of Other States (the ICSID Convention) was signed today on behalf of the Republic of Kosovo by His Excellency Fatmir Sejdiu, President of the Republic of Kosovo and His Excellency Hashim Thaçi, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo.

Before signing the ICSID Convention, the Republic of Kosovo became a member of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). The Republic of Kosovo also joined the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).

The ICSID Secretary-General, Ms. Meg Kinnear, was among the World Bank Group officials witnessing the signing ceremony.

The Republic of Kosovo also deposited its Instrument of Acceptance of the ICSID Convention with the World Bank, which acts as the depositary of the Convention. The ICSID Convention will enter into force for the Republic of Kosovo on July 29, 2009, following the completion of all requirements for ICSID membership.