Skopje, 24 November 2023 (MIA) – Upon the invitation of the Finance Minister of the Netherlands, and the OECD, National Bank Governor Anita Angelovska-Bezhoska participated in an event on financial education, which also marked the beginning of the second stage of a project financed by the Dutch Ministry of Finance and OECD/INFE aimed at supporting financial literacy and inclusion in the region of Central and Southeastern Europe, said the National Bank in a press release Friday.

The event was opened by Dutch Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Sigrid Kaag, who addressed the attendees.

In a panel discussion at the event, Angelovska-Bezhoska spoke about digitization in finance, which she said carries numerous advantages and risks, underlining the importance of financial education in dealing with the risks.

“The digital era also brings new risks. The risks of digital innovations, such as new possible types of e-fraud, issues over security and confidentiality of data, easier access to short-term loans and the potential over-indebtedness of households, must be approached carefully, not only from a regulatory point of view, but by also raising awareness for these issues as part of the process of financial education,” said Angelovska-Bezhoska.

She added that despite the new opportunities for inclusion, the lack of digital skills and digital literacy can limit inclusivity and the benefits of digital financial services.

The Governor stated that significant progress has been achieved in recent years as part of the first stage of the project with OECD/INFE and the Dutch Finance Ministry.

The event was held in The Hague, the Netherlands, as part of an annual meeting of the regional project “Technical Assistance on Financial Education”. The event was attended by high representatives of ten countries from Central and Southeastern Europe that are a part of the project.

Photo: National Bank of the Republic of North Macedonia