Mission
The Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce was established in Kosovo in late 2021 as a not-for-profit association under Kosovo law. The founders are American-Israeli-Kosovar companies which intend to facilitate and support business relationships between Israel and Kosovo, and build upon the formal diplomatic relationship established between Israel and Kosovo to expand commercial ties between the two countries.
The Mission of the Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce is
To facilitate and support business relations between Israel and Kosovo
To support the formalized diplomatic relationship between Israel and Kosovo with specific business and other activities
To support and enhance business-to-business and people-to-people engagement and to facilitate scientific exchanges that will strengthen business relations between Israel and Kosovo
To expand opportunities for business cooperation, innovation and investment in all economic sectors
To strengthen and diversify Israel’s access to the Western Balkans market and to support Kosovo’s access to Israel’s market
In order to achieve its Mission, the Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce will focus on the following activities:
To promote Israel as a valuable partner for Kosovo’s economic development
To establish a network of Israeli and Kosovo businesses that will strengthen business relations between Israel and Kosovo
To provide professional support services for Israeli and Kosovo businesses in an effort to establish communication and cooperation for trade and investment
To provide information to Israeli and Kosovo businesses on business and investment opportunities and other relevant information required to enable and facilitate business cooperation
To provide professional training and other capacity-building activities related to business cooperation, investment and trade
To organize and implement industry-specific missions to Israel, Kosovo and other countries in order to bring together potential business partners and to explore business opportunities
To perform any other activities that are required and relevant for facilitating business cooperation between Israel and Kosovo
THE Assembly
The Assembly is the highest governing body of the Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce. It shall consist of all members of the Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce.
The Executive Board is the main executive and management body of the Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce.
FATBARDHA BYTYÇI
Chairman of the Executive Board
READ BIO
Fatbardha Bytyçi | Chairman of the Executive Board
Her professional journey includes high ranking managerial positions in International Banks present in the Balkan region as well as high ranking managerial positions in the electricity private and public sector. She has practiced at various institutions, including Albania’s TSO – OST in the capacity of the Market Administration Director; she was a Branch Manager at Verbund Hydro Power in Austria; Head of Finance at Energji Ashta; Head of Operations Department and Corporate Division Manager at Procredit Bank in Tirana; Deputy Director at Kosovo Pension Saving Trust in Kosovo; and Head of Corporate Banking at Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo.
Ms. Bytyçi served as the Representative of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO) at the Tax Council of the Ministry of Finance in Albania, therefore bringing her professional experience on business awareness and outreach at KICC.
She is an alumna of the University of Tirana, holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and Banking, and has further developed her skills through various training and qualification programs. She has completed the Procredit Bank Academy program on Finance and Banking, received SAP training, and undertook Advanced Corporate Credit Analysis training at DC Gardner Training in London, only to name a few.
AZEM REXHAJ
Member of the Executive Board
READ BIO
Fatbardha Bytyçi | Member of the Executive Board
Fatbardha Bytyçi, (FUENTE Dynamics) is an experienced high ranking professional banker with over 15 year’s involvement in the energy sector, undertaking her own private initiative since 2016.
Her professional journey includes high ranking managerial positions in International Banks present in the Balkan region as well as high ranking managerial positions in the electricity private and public sector. She has practiced at various institutions, including Albania's TSO – OST in the capacity of the Market Administration Director; she was a Branch Manager at Verbund Hydro Power in Austria; Head of Finance at Energji Ashta; Head of Operations Department and Corporate Division Manager at Procredit Bank in Tirana; Deputy Director at Kosovo Pension Saving Trust in Kosovo; and Head of Corporate Banking at Raiffeisen Bank Kosovo.
Ms. Bytyçi served as the Representative of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO) at the Tax Council of the Ministry of Finance in Albania, therefore bringing her professional experience on business awareness and outreach at KICC.
She is an alumna of the University of Tirana, holding a Bachelor's Degree in Finance and Banking, and has further developed her skills through various training and qualification programs. She has completed the Procredit Bank Academy program on Finance and Banking, received SAP training, and undertook Advanced Corporate Credit Analysis training at DC Gardner Training in London, only to name a few.
ISMAJL BAFTIJARI
Member of the Executive Board
READ BIO
Kujtim Kërveshi | Member of the Executive Board
Kujtim Kërveshi (Kerveshi&Partners) - an Attorney who has specialized in civil law, civil procedural law, commercial law, investment law and arbitration/mediation. Mr. Kërveshi is a former member of the Kosovo Prosecutors Council and vice-president of the Kosovo Prosecutors Council Disciplinary Panel. He has worked with several USAID programs in Kosovo in establishing the Alternative Dispute Resolution system in the country (arbitration and mediation), training mediators and arbitrators. He has provided substantial contribution in establishing the American Chamber of Commerce's ADR Center as well as the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce's Permanent Arbitration Tribunal and private enforcement system as well. Prior to these assignments, Mr. Kërveshi served as the Principal Legal Adviser to the Kosovo Minister of Justice and worked on several international programs. Mr. Kërveshi has served as the Deputy Chief in the Prime Minister's Office of Legal Support Services. In 2005 he provided substantial support in establishing the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, Kosovo Judicial and Prosecutorial Council, by leading the Kosovo team in developing the terms of the references for these institutions. Mr. Kërveshi is one of Kosovo's leading attorneys currently litigating some of the most complex cases in the country. He is an experienced commercial arbitrator and mediator, and has attended several trainings at the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris. Mr. Kërveshi has over 12 years of experience lecturing at universities in civil contested procedures, arbitration, private international law and international transactions.
ZGJIM MITA
Member of the Executive Board
READ BIO
Zgjim Mita | Member of the Executive Board
Zgjim Mita
CEO, Auto Mita
Zgjim Mita is an accomplished business leader and the driving force behind Auto Mita's remarkable success in the Adriatic’s automotive industry. With a relentless commitment to excellence and a deep-rooted passion for innovation, Zgjim has carved a distinctive path in the business world.
Zgjim's journey at Auto Mita began in June 2006 when he joined the company as the Sales and Marketing Manager. Over the years, his dedication and strategic acumen allowed him to rise through the ranks. In January 2015, he assumed the role of CEO, where his visionary leadership has been instrumental in shaping Auto Mita's growth and destiny.
Under his guidance, Auto Mita has achieved remarkable milestones, including securing a commanding market share of over 30% for renowned brands such as Renault, Nissan, and Dacia, while also reaching a partnership with VOLVO cars in November 2022 . For six consecutive years, Auto Mita has proudly retained its position as the top seller of brand-new cars in the Adriatic region with more than 1000 cars being sold annually, a testament to Zgjim's unwavering commitment to excellence.
Zgjim's leadership extends beyond the balance sheets and sales figures. He has championed a culture of innovation, customer-centricity, and sustainability within Auto Mita. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, Zgjim has ensured that Auto Mita remains at the forefront of the dynamic automotive landscape.
His ability to inspire and lead a high-performing team has been a cornerstone of his success. Through his guidance, Auto Mita has consistently delivered exceptional service and products, meeting and exceeding the expectations of our valued customers.
Zgjim's journey is a testament to the power of visionary leadership, dedication, and innovation. He continues to drive Auto Mita towards new horizons, and the road ahead is filled with promise and possibilities.
KUJTIM KËRVESHI
Member of the Executive Board
READ BIO
Ismajl Baftijari| Member of the Executive Board
THE Honorary Committee
Membership in the Honorary Committee is the highest honor that the Kosovo-Israel Chamber of Commerce can bestow upon distinguished individuals. The Honorary Committee is composed of individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and who have made exceptionally distinguished contributions to strengthen relations between Kosovo and Israel.
SKËNDER HYSENI
Honorary Committee
READ BIO
SKENDER HYSENI | Honorary Committee
On March 3, 2008, Hyseni was appointed as Kosovo's Foreign Minister, a role he held until October 18, 2010, when he was succeeded by Vlora Çitaku. Prior to his tenure as Foreign Minister, Hyseni served as Minister of Culture, Youth, Sport, and Non-Residential Affairs. He was also the government spokesperson and played a key role as a negotiator for Kosovo in the lead-up to the 2008 declaration of independence
ELIOT L. ENGEL ...
Honorary Committee
READ BIO
ELIOT L. ENGEL | Honorary Committee
Eliot L. Engel, a Democrat from New York, served 32 years in the United States House of Representatives, rising to Chair the powerful Committee on Foreign Affairs. During his years in Congress, Rep. Engel wrote key bipartisan legislation on the Kosovo, Albania, Syria, Cyprus, the Western Hemisphere, and Global Health. Today, Rep. Engel lives in New York and is a consultant with various clients.
SUSAN MOLINARI
Honorary Committee
READ BIO
SUSAN MOLINARI | Honorary Committee
Susan Molinari, a Republican from New York, served 7 years in the United States House of Representatives. In Congress, she developed a strong record of bipartisanship and was Co-Chair of the Albanian Issues Caucus. Today, Rep. Molinari is a member of APCO Worldwide's International Advisory Council. She previously served as Google's Vice President of Public Policy for the Americas.
ISA MUSTAFA ...
Honorary Committee
READ BIO
ISA MUSTAFA| Honorary Committee
Isa Mustafa was born in Prapashtica, municipality of Prishtina, in 1951. He is a Member of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Kosovo since 2008. He graduated from the Faculty of Economics in Prishtina (1974), received a master's degree from the Faculty of Organizational Sciences in Belgrade (1985) and a doctorate from the Faculty of Economics of the University of Prishtina (2001). He is professor at the University of Prishtina for Microeconomics, Management Economics, Financial Management.
Isa Mustafa was Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo (November 2014-September 2017). Mayor of the Municipality of Prishtina (2008-2013), Senior Adviser to the President of Kosovo (2006-2008), Vice President of the Riinvest Development Research Institute (2002-2005) Minister of Finance in the Provisional Government of the Ruling Coalition (in exile, 1991-1999), Director of the Planning and Development of Kosovo (1988-1989), Mayor of Prishtina (1984-1988).
He was the President of the Democratic League of Kosovo (2009-2021), a member of the Board of the University of Prishtina, Board member of the Central Bank of Kosovo, a member of the Council of Higher Education Experts at the Ministry of Education. He has published numerous of scientific and professional papers in Kosovo and abroad.
ENVER HOXHAJ ...
Honorary Committee
READ BIO
ENVER HOXHAJ | Honorary Committee
Enver Hoxhaj has been one of the most active politicians in Kosovo for the last 20 years. Currently, he is the Deputy Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo, while he has also served as Member of the Parliament in seven (7) legislatures. Mr. Hoxhaj was a member of Kosovo’s delegation in UN-led talks on Kosovo’s independence (2008-2011).
Mr. Hoxhaj has served as Minister of Education, Science and Technology (2008-2011), Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kosovo for two terms (2011-2014 and 2016-2017), whereas, from 2017 to 2020 Mr. Hoxhaj served as Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo. Prior to that he was a research associate at the London School of Economics and John Hopkins University, as well as professor of Political Science at the University of Prishtina since 2000. Hoxhaj has completed his doctoral studies in history at University of Vienna, and he is the author of many other academic works and books, such as "Ethnic Policy" and "Building a State - Kosovo's Foreign Policy". His latest book became very popular because it addressed the unique path of foreign policy, while providing a strategic vision on Kosovo’s future.
Hoxhaj is fluent in English, German and Serbo-Croatian.
THE Advisory Committee
The Advisory Committee is composed of individuals who have unique knowledge, experience, and skills in relation to Kosovo and Israel and who are willing to support the strengthening of relations between Kosovo and Israel. The members of the Advisory Committee provide advisory services to the governing bodies of the Kosovo-Israel Chamber of Commerce on the political, economic, and business-related aspects of relations between Kosovo and Israel with a view to supporting the effective management of the Kosovo-Israel Chamber of Commerce in accordance with its mission, values and principles.
JASON STEINBAUM
Advisory Committee
JASON STEINBAUM | Advisory Committee
Jason Steinbaum is Non-Resident Fellow with the German Marshall Fund of the United States. He worked on Capitol Hill for more than three decades, during which he served as Staff Director of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and Washington Chief of Staff to Rep. Eliot L. Engel (D-NY). Previously, he was Staff Director of the House Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere and worked for Senator Donald W. Riegle, Jr. (D-MI). During his extensive career in Congress, Mr. Steinbaum wrote key legislation affecting U.S. foreign policy, including the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act, the Missing in Cyprus Act, and the law providing normal trade relations with Albania. He was a leading staffer on U.S. policy toward the Balkans, including authoring several important amendments relating to Kosovo and Serbia, and has monitored elections in countries throughout the region. Mr. Steinbaum holds a JD and an MA in law and international affairs from The American University in Washington, DC. He received his BA with distinction from the University of Virginia. Mr. Steinbaum is a member of the bars of the States of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. He and his family live in Northern Virginia.
READ BIO
ADRIAN NERITANI
Advisory Committee
ADRIAN NERITANI | Advisory Committee
Adrian Neritani served as Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Albania to the United Nations in New York, and concurrently non-resident Ambassador to Cuba. Then he joined the President of the UN General Assembly as his Legal Counsel. Later on, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon appointed Amb. Neritani to serve as Political Director of the Joint Investigative Mechanism (JIM), a UN Security Council mandated body to identify perpetrators responsible in the use of chemical weapons in Syria. Amb. Neritani started his diplomatic career in 1991 and remained with the Foreign Service until 1999, holding a variety of positions of increasing responsibility (including DCM and Charge d’Affaires a.i. at the Albanian Embassy in Beijing, China). At the beginning of his career Adrian was a Lecturer, University of Shkodra, Albania, and most recently an Adjunct Professor of Law, John Marshall Law School in Chicago.Currently, Amb. Neritani is an Attorney and Counsellor at Law in New York City, focusing his practice in areas of international law and business transactions. Adrian serves as a pro bono legal adviser of the UN Women for Peace Association, a New York based not for profit committed to end violence against women and girls. He is also a board member of the International Association of Permanent Representatives to the United Nations in New York.Adrian holds Bachelor Degrees in Political Science and Law from the University of Tirana, a Master’s Degree in Diplomacy from the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta, and a Master of Laws (LLM) in International Business and Trade Law from the John Marshall Law School in Chicago, USA. He is a member of New York Bar.
READ BIO
DAVID SCHWARTZ
Advisory Committee
DAVID SCHWARTZ | Advisory Committee
Schwartz is a nationally recognized AV rated trial attorney and a lobbyist for businesses, trade associations, not-for-profits and individuals. Mr. Schwartz is an aggressive advocate whether it’s the various courts in New York and DC, or in the halls of the legislature. Mr. Schwartz has represented many high profile clients in the litigation and lobbying arenas. Mr Schwartz has been a trustee of various bar association, a commissioner to the Commission on Judicial Nomination, Javits Center and most recently a Director of Globe Wholesale in Brooklyn. Mr. Schwartz has been named to the exclusive SuperLawyers list and many other prominent lists for lawyers, lobbyists and communications specialists.
READ BIO
KUJTIM KËRVESHI
Advisory Committee
KUJTIM KËRVESHI | Advisory Committee
Kujtim Kërveshi - an Attorney who has specialized in civil law, civil procedural law, commercial law, investment law and arbitration/mediation. Mr. Kërveshi is a former member of the Kosovo Prosecutors Council and vice-president of the Kosovo Prosecutors Council Disciplinary Panel. He has worked with several USAID programs in Kosovo in establishing the Alternative Dispute Resolution system in the country (arbitration and mediation), training mediators and arbitrators. He has provided substantial contribution in establishing the American Chamber of Commerce's ADR Center as well as the Kosovo Chamber of Commerce's Permanent Arbitration Tribunal and private enforcement system as well. Prior to these assignments, Mr. Kërveshi served as the Principal Legal Adviser to the Kosovo Minister of Justice and worked on several international programs. Mr. Kërveshi has served as the Deputy Chief in the Prime Minister's Office of Legal Support Services. In 2005 he provided substantial support in establishing the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, Kosovo Judicial and Prosecutorial Council, by leading the Kosovo team in developing the terms of the references for these institutions. Mr. Kërveshi is one of Kosovo's leading attorneys currently litigating some of the most complex cases in the country. He is an experienced commercial arbitrator and mediator, and has attended several trainings at the International Chamber of Commerce in Paris. Mr. Kërveshi has over 12 years of experience lecturing at universities in civil contested procedures, arbitration, private international law and international transactions.
READ BIO
| Executive Director
READ BIO
Executive Director
The Executive Director is responsible for implementing all functions and duties delegated to him/her by the Executive Board and for ensuring that the daily operations of the Kosovo – Israel Chamber of Commerce comply with applicable law and the Statute.
