On Wednesday 9 May, the first meeting of the Cooperation Group of the Financial Sector, which was set up by Prime Minister Māris Kučinskis, was held. The Head of Government, the Ministry of Finance and the Financial and Capital Market Commission informed representatives of commercial banks about an action plan for the adjustment of the financial sector, as well as on the steps already taken, including the alignment of legislation to ensure the transparency of the financial sector.
The Prime Minister welcomed the constructive and open dialogue with representatives of the commercial banks, which makes it possible to regard the government’s strategy for improving the situation in the industry from the wider perspective. He also expressed his conviction that the Office for Prevention of Laundering of Proceeds Derived from Criminal Activity, after its reorganization and under the new leadership, will be able to ensure effective control over the sector.
JSC Citadele and other banks appreciate the establishment of such a cooperation platform where we can discuss both the developments in the sector and make our suggestions regarding the problems to be further addressed in the industry. I believe that the measures already taken should be supported. We, of course, would like swifter implementation, but it should be borne in mind that the issue is very complicated and takes more time. The end result should be a better situation in the financial sector, and we are fully committed to directing the process towards stability," said Johan Akerblom, Member of the Management Board, Finance Director of Citadele during the meeting with media representatives.
The platform for cooperation in the financial sector was established on April 26 this year to facilitate cooperation in the process of transformation of the financial sector in Latvia and restore its international reputation, as well as to evaluate the effects of the changes on business environment. The representatives of JSC SEB Banka, JSC Citadele Banka, JSC Swedbank and JSC Luminor Bank are invited to participate in this platform.
Andrejs Vaivars
Press Secretary to the Prime Minister
Mob.: 29228678
E-mail: Andrejs.Vaivars@mk.gov.lv