Central Bank Chairman Taleh Kazimov held another traditional meeting with experts.
Modern.az reports that lawyer Akram Hasanov, a participant in the meeting, stated this.
According to him, the meeting, attended by 14 experts, lasted 3 hours.
“As always, there were very interesting, heated, and sincere discussions. The format created by Taleh Kazimov has no analogue among state institutions. The chief banker not only gives comprehensive answers to all questions but also shows considerable tolerance for criticism. Let it be an example to others! These qualities are indicators of knowledge and honesty,” A. Hasanov noted.
According to him, the main topic of discussion at the meeting was the inflation indicator.
“Experts advocate for determining price increases based on the prices of fewer goods. Because the current methodology of the Central Bank also covers numerous goods with low demand (their prices usually do not rise), which ultimately shows a lower official inflation level. Mr. Taleh stated that he would discuss this issue again with the Statistics Committee.
Of course, bank credit interest rates and commission fees (market conditions remain unchanged), as well as concentration and healthy competition (problems remain here and the Central Bank continues its work), the manat exchange rate (no devaluation threat), and the stability of the banking system (no problematic banks) were discussed,” the expert added.
A. Hasanov said that he had three topics of interest and received answers to them:
“1. Ensuring citizens' ability to choose a bank for salaries and pensions. I had raised this topic in previous meetings as well. The issue will be resolved in the summer months: everyone will choose their own bank.
2. A law on leasing was adopted, but not on pawnshops, although the latter create more problems for banks. It was stated that a draft law on pawnshops has already been submitted and is more aimed at protecting consumer rights.
3. What is the need for a strict currency regime in conditions of excess foreign currency liquidity? Even if there is a need, in most cases, entrepreneurs import goods within 2 years after transferring money abroad, but they are fined for some formal and technical problem in the documentation. That is, a detailed investigation is not carried out. It was stated that Central Bank employees were instructed to express a position in this matter, taking into account that entrepreneurs imported the goods at the court stage.”
The lawyer called on other high-ranking officials:
“Of course, the financial sector has many problems. But in any case, many of them can be solved in an atmosphere of transparency and dialogue. Therefore, I appeal to the heads of other institutions: do not be afraid of experts, we criticize you for the good of our country. Therefore, do not wish for our disappearance, cooperate, it benefits your work, it does not harm it. Of course, if your knowledge and honesty are at the required level...”
