Скопје, 17 март 2022
This year we celebrate 30 years of monetary sovereignty of the Republic of North Macedonia. On 26 April, 30 years ago, the foundations of our monetary independence were laid: the Denar was introduced as our sovereign currency, replacing the then Yugoslav dinar, while the National Bank began to function as an independent central bank. With this, the independence of our country was fully completed.
Since then, over the years, the National Bank teams have worked with great dedication, sacrifice and vision to build what we have today - a stable domestic currency and a modern, credible and internationally recognized, independent central bank. Our institution has faced a number of challenges on this journey, both in implementing significant market-oriented reforms in the banking system, as well as dealing with shocks of various natures. Thru all these challenges, the basic goals we set have been achieved.
In recent years, the National Bank has received a number of acknowledgements from international institutions for both its functioning and policies it implements.
The past 30 years of successful work of the National Bank are a guarantee that in the next period we will have the capacity to deal with the challenges posed by the current situation. We continue to maintain the stability of the denar, both from economic and non-economic threats - speculation and false news, which are equally dangerous.
While maintaining the stability of the denar and financial stability, at the same time, we are oriented towards the future, following the example of the largest central banks. Our future activities are aimed at enabling the creation of better and cheaper banking services through fintech, while taking into account cyber security. Furthermore, our commitment is in the direction of green finances, because all policy makers should be aware that climate change will be one of the biggest threats of the 21st century.
To mark this important national anniversary, the National Bank is hosting several events, including the Official Ceremony to mark the anniversary and the National Bank Research Conference, which this year will be organized in partnership with the European Investment Bank (EIB). It will be attended by governors and vice-governors of central banks from the region and Europe, as well as representatives of international financial organizations, the scientific community and the banking sector.