Within the framework of the Point Zero Forum 2026 held in Zurich, Switzerland, Natia Turnava, Governor of the National Bank of Georgia (NBG), held a meeting with Tommaso Mancini-Griffoli, Head of the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub.

The parties discussed current trends and challenges in the fields of financial technology, digital finance, and payment systems. The conversation highlighted the projects and initiatives of the BIS Innovation Hub that promote enhanced financial sector efficiency and the adoption of innovation.

Special emphasis was placed on the cooperation between the National Bank of Georgia and the BIS Innovation Hub. The NBG's active participation in various BIS Innovation Hub initiatives, including Project Aperta and Project Noor, was highlighted. Furthermore, the parties explored prospects for broadening the partnership and exchanging professional expertise and experience.

During the meeting, the reforms implemented by the National Bank of Georgia to foster financial innovation were reviewed. This included the development of a regulatory framework for digital banks, Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), and stablecoins. In this context, the parties exchanged views on international best practices concerning digital financial services, tokenization, and Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs).

Discussions further addressed opportunities for improving the efficiency of cross-border payments and underscored the vital role of international cooperation in this process.