Washington, 19 April 2026 (MIA) - Governor of the National Bank Trajko Slaveski, together with Finance Minister Gordana Dimitrieska-Kochoska and the delegation, held a meeting with IMF Deputy Managing Director Bo Li on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Spring Meetings taking place in Washington D.C.

The discussions, as stated by the National Bank, were held amid increased global uncertainty stemming from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. A key focus of the meeting was the impact on global energy flows, inflationary pressures, and possible effects on economic outlooks. Both sides stressed the importance of carefully monitoring risks and ensuring timely policy responses in the event of spillovers to the domestic economy.

Particular emphasis was placed on the possibility of indirect or second-round effects on inflation, with it being underlined that the National Bank is closely monitoring the situation and stands ready, if necessary, to respond with available monetary instruments in order to preserve price stability.

Governor Slaveski highlighted the National Bank’s commitment to conducting a prudent, consistent and credible monetary policy aimed at maintaining price stability and safeguarding financial stability amid heightened global volatility and uncertainty.

The discussions underscored the significance of central bank independence, including both operational and financial independence, as a crucial condition for the effective and timely conduct of monetary policy and the preservation of institutional trust. It was also stressed that stable institutional frameworks are especially important in times of increased external shocks and rapid global change.

The interlocutors reiterated the importance of continuous cooperation between the National Bank and the IMF, as well as IMF support for further improving analytical and institutional capacities.

“As noted, the meeting represents a reaffirmation of the common commitment to macroeconomic stability and to strengthening economic resilience amid rising global risks, with central banks remaining a key pillar of stability,” reads the National Bank’s press release.

Photo: MIA archive, National Bank Governor’s Office