UNMIK/PR/1314
PRISTINA – The Deputy SRSG for Pillar IV, Joachim Ruecker, has signed contracts for the sale of 12 companies from the third wave of privatisation in Kosovo. The total value of the contracts is nearly €10 million for the sale of the “NewCos” (new companies) created from formerly socially owned enterprises. Three more contracts from the third wave remain to be signed pending the resolution of some technical issues, which is expected shortly.
Regarding the future of privatisation, Mr. Ruecker expressed his commitment to a quick continuation of the process and for the KTA Board to convene as soon as possible.
At his first press conference today since his arrival on Sunday, 9 February, DSRSG Ruecker expressed his respect for what has been achieved in Kosovo over the past five years. “I have been mayor for many years in a city in Germany and I know how difficult it is to improve things. And you have managed to do so.” He commended the government of former Prime Minister Bajram Rexhepi and the current government led by Ramush Haradinaj for the achievements of the past and present.
Mr. Ruecker also stressed his commitment to the Standards process. “Kosovo is at a crossroads. The months ahead of us are decisive”, he said, adding that he will do everything he can to support the implementation of Standard 5, which is dedicated to Kosovo’s economy. Mr. Ruecker went on to say he wants to work in partnership with local officials and institutions. “We are here to support the Kosovars. That is our ultimate mission.”
Mr. Ruecker emphasized that the future of Kosovo rests with Europe and the region – particularly with regard to the economically important sectors of energy and trade. “The continuation of privatisation is one sign of what we can accomplish together”, the new DSRSG concluded. “A lot needs to be done. But I am very willing to move things forward.”
List of NewCos, for which sales contracts were signed:
| NewCo Bottling Plant LLC | €693,250 |
| NewCo Fazita LLC | €2,781,250 |
| NewCo Fazita Industrial Zone LLC | €550,000 |
| NewCo Plantacioni-Shtime LLC | €516,765 |
| NewCo Plantacioni Refrigeration Plant LLC | €211,250 |
| NewCo Derma Commerce Warehouse LLC | €131,251 |
| NewCo Progressi Printing – Mitrovica LLC | €271,250 |
| NewCo Bujqesia-Zahaq LLC | €1,101,250 |
| NewCo Printing House – Prizren LLC | €802,250 |
| NewCo Buzagillek Warehouse LLC | €2,706,250 |
| NewCo PH Shop – Gjakove LLC | €51,250 |
| NewCo PH Shop - Suhareka | €45,550 |
| TOTAL SALES: | €9,861,566 |
Two contracts, Hotel Adriatik and Silcapor, are not completed from the Second Wave.
Three contracts from the Third Wave are outstanding: Plantacioni – Ferizaj, 17 Nentori Shopping Mall, and Special Spin-off Perparimi.
KTA officials expressed optimism that all contracts would be ready shortly.