Kyrgyzstan’s central bank has signed a memorandum of understanding with blockchain security company CertiK as it develops the framework for the proposed Digital Som. The agreement links the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic with a private-sector security specialist to support both technical safeguards and regulatory oversight tied to the project.

According to the announcement, the cooperation covers cybersecurity, digital asset custody, anti-money laundering controls and counter-financing of terrorism measures. It also extends beyond system design, with the central bank considering tools and training that could shape how digital assets are supervised on an ongoing basis.

Security work tied to the CBDC framework

The partnership is framed as a strategic step to reinforce protections around the proposed Digital Som. Under the MoU, the two sides plan to work on security protocols intended for the digital currency’s infrastructure as well as its continued operation.

The source article says the arrangement would place CertiK within a central-bank operational framework, where its role would be to help integrate technical security measures and formal verification during development and after launch-related infrastructure is in use. The Digital Som is still described as proposed, indicating that the work is part of a broader buildout rather than confirmation of a finished rollout.

Oversight of custody, AML and CFT

Alongside core cybersecurity work, the agreement covers digital asset custody and compliance controls. The National Bank and CertiK are set to collaborate on anti-money laundering procedures and measures aimed at countering the financing of terrorism, areas that are central to the oversight of digital financial systems.

By including these functions in the MoU, the central bank appears to be combining technology planning with supervisory requirements from an early stage. The stated goal is not limited to protecting infrastructure, but also to shape how risks linked to digital assets are managed within a formal regulatory setting.

Monitoring tools and staff training under review

The cooperation also includes possible use of CertiK’s regulatory and supervision products. The National Bank is exploring the company’s tools for real-time transaction monitoring, regulatory advisory work and licensing standards, according to the source material.

Knowledge transfer is another part of the plan. Technical training for central bank staff is included in the understanding, suggesting that the project is intended to build internal capability at the regulator as well as rely on outside expertise.

Broader policy direction in Kyrgyzstan

The article presents the partnership as part of Kyrgyzstan’s wider effort to develop a safer and more tightly regulated digital asset environment. CertiK’s participation is also linked to its broader involvement in regulatory frameworks in other markets, which appears to be one reason it was selected for this role.

For now, the confirmed next step is cooperation under the newly signed memorandum. As described in the source, the National Bank will continue assessing CertiK’s security, monitoring and compliance tools while building the long-term oversight structure around the proposed Digital Som and digital assets more broadly.

Source: news.bitcoin.com