Skopje, 30 November 2024 (MIA) — National Bank Governor Anita Angelovska Bezhoska and Vice Governor Ana Mitreska met with a delegation of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development led by EBRD country representative Fatih Türkmenoğlu.

According to a National Bank press release, the objective of the meeting was to consult on the EBRD's Country Strategy for 2025-2030. Meeting participants exchanged views on implementing a transparent and inclusive process of developing the new EBRD strategy for cooperation with the country.

The discussion focused on identifying priorities and opportunities for boosting the country's sustainable economic development by providing support to the private sector and the digital transformation of the economy in line with EBRD goals.

Governor Angelovska Bezhoska and Vice Governor Mitreska told the EBRD representatives the central bank was committed to cooperation aimed at strengthening the country's economic resilience and financial stability amid the global risks related to geo-economic fragmentation, climate change, and the slowing growth potential of more developed economies.

Meeting participants also highlighted the successful cooperation between the National Bank and the EBRD to date and the readiness of the international financial institution to maintain continuity in providing support for reform of priority segments, including in the financial system.

"The EBRD is committed to supporting the country's national and regional economic development through a comprehensive and strategic approach," the EBRD representative said at the meeting, according to the press release.

"With over EUR 2.9 billion invested in 196 projects since 1993, the EBRD has played a key role in strengthening competitiveness, improving infrastructure and fostering digitization, energy sustainability and regional integration," Türkmenoğlu is quoted as saying in the release.

He said that the EBRD would remain focused on private sector development aimed at a more dynamic and resilient business environment.

Türkmenoğlu added that the EBRD was also committed to further strengthening the country's financial resilience, supporting private sector growth and ensuring a green, inclusive and digital transformation of the economy in line with EBRD's long-term sustainable development goals. mr/