Skopje, 14 November 2023 (MIA) - Prime Minister Dimitar Kovachevski, along with the Minister of Finance, Fatmir Besimi, held a meeting Tuesday with a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) led by the head of the IMF mission for the Republic of North Macedonia, Jacques Miniane, the new IMF Mission Chief Annette Jacqueline Kyobe and the alternate executive director of the mission, Luc Dresse.

The government press service said that today's meeting centered on the ongoing cooperation between the Republic of North Macedonia and the IMF. Both parties reaffirmed their commitments, underscoring their mutual dedication to sustaining collaboration in the future.

PM Kovachevski, on behalf of the government, expressed gratitude for the IMF's recognition and support of government economic policies. He also thanked the IMF for its continuous support to the country, noting the significant contribution of this international financial institution to strengthening policies and aligning legal and regulatory frameworks with EU standards, which is crucial in the country's accession process to the European family.

“Prime Minister Kovachevski emphasized that a primary objective of the government in the medium term is to achieve sustainable economic development, fiscal consolidation, and the implementation of structural reforms. He underscored that only stable public finances can guarantee long-term growth and development for the country, enhancing the standard of living for citizens - a key factor in advancing the state on the path to European integration,” reads the government’s press release.

During the meeting, they mutually acknowledged that the IMF will support the government's commitments to further reduce the budget deficit, combat inflation, preserve financial stability, enhance the standard of living through increased investments, promote productivity growth, and accelerate the green transition.

The meeting took place upon the conclusion of the International Monetary Fund’s Article IV consultation with the Republic of North Macedonia.

The IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country's economic developments and policies.

Photo: Government of the Republic of North Macedonia