FIME this week announced an official partnership with Russian plastic cards software provider Pronit to extend its migration and certification services to issuing and acquiring banks in the region, according to a press release.

FIME said its relationship will enable Pronit to combine FIME's global portfolio of services across the contact and contactless EMV and mobile payments landscape with its regional knowledge and local language.  

Pronit will offer on-the-ground FIME products and services across Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States, including Georgia and Ukraine, according to the announcement. It will predominately target banks that need to comply with international payment system standards, such as MasterCard and Visa, to offer global, interoperable transactions through the delivery of FIME consulting, certification services and test tools. FIME on-site and off-site support for MasterCard terminal and card testing will also be provided.

"Russia and the surrounding area are reflective of global trends to offer customers a globally convenient and secure transaction environment," Mikael Berrebi, business director at FIME EMEA, said in a statement. "At the same time, banks are increasingly looking to integrate new and innovative payment solutions using contactless payments and mobile devices. To ensure these pioneering payment solutions offer seamless transactions, testing and certifications must be completed prior to market launch. Having these available locally saves time and money, which is vital when you are working to get products launched."