The National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia held a first meeting between Governor Trajko Slaveski and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) country representative, Visar Perani, to explore cooperation across several areas, including an IFC regional project aimed at strengthening digital financial services and financial inclusion. Discussions covered the central bank’s role in the digital transformation of the financial system through updated regulation and innovation-supporting activities, with a focus on the new payments legal framework that has opened the market to new service providers and encouraged fintech innovation. Cooperation priorities highlighted by the governor included support for payment service providers’ further integration with European Union payment systems following membership in the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), development of instant payments, and preparation of a new medium-term strategy for payment system development. IFC representatives also stressed aligning regulatory frameworks with international standards and promoting partnerships among banks, fintech firms and the private sector.
National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia 2025-07-31
National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia discusses cooperation with the International Finance Corporation on digital finance and payments development
The National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) discussed cooperation to enhance digital financial services and inclusion. Key topics included the central bank's role in digital transformation, integration with EU payment systems, and a new medium-term strategy for payment system development. The IFC emphasized aligning regulatory frameworks with international standards and fostering partnerships among banks, fintech firms, and the private sector.