Ekaterine Galdava, Vice Governor of the National Bank of Georgia, took part in Global Payments Week 2025, organized by the World Bank in Brasília, the capital of Brazil.

The event brought together representatives from over 70 countries, including central bank governors, financial regulators, and payment system experts. Participants discussed global trends and emerging challenges in the payments landscape.

Key topics throughout the week included digital payment innovations, enhancements in international transfers, tokenization, cybersecurity, and the implementation of instant payment systems.

During her visit, Vice Governor Galdava held meetings with vice presidents of central banks from various countries, as well as with Daniela Russo, Principal Advisor to the Executive Board of the European Central Bank. Discussions focused on the implementation of instant payment systems, managing risks linked to innovative financial products, and strengthening the security of digital financial services.

 

Galdava emphasized that electronic payments are a strategic priority for the National Bank of Georgia, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in this domain.

“Participating in global payment forums provides Georgia with valuable practical insights and opens opportunities to strengthen cooperation with key international partners. The development, reliability, and security of electronic payments, along with strong consumer protection, remain top priorities for us. Regional and global experience sharing in this area is extremely beneficial,” said Ekaterine Galdava.

Natalia Chkoidze, Head of the Payment Systems Department, also took part in the meetings. During the visit, the Georgian delegation held bilateral discussions with Harish Natarajan, Practice Manager for Financial Inclusion and Infrastructure at the World Bank’s Finance, Competitiveness & Innovation Global Practice, as well as with representatives of various countries. These discussions focused on regional approaches to enhancing international payments and fostering regulatory interoperability.

Global Payments Week 2025 is jointly organized by the World Bank, the Committee on Payments and Market Infrastructures (CPMI - BIS), and the Central Bank of Brazil. The event serves as a key global platform for dialogue, the exchange of innovations and best practices, and the promotion of international cooperation in the payments sector.