North Macedonia Country Partnership Framework for FY19-23 Chair Summary* April 18, 2019 Executive Directors discussed the joint IBRD/IFC/MIGA Country Partnership Framework for the Republic of North Macedonia for the period of FY19-23. They expressed broad support for the new framework of engagement in the country. Directors welcomed the shift towards faster, more inclusive and sustainable growth by (i) improving the environment for a dynamic private sector to enhance export-led growth, (ii) strengthening human capital for inclusive development, and (iii) building sustainability. Directors welcomed efforts under each focus area to incorporate gender sensitivity, citizen engagement, climate resilience and public accountability. Directors noted that the level of poverty remains high coupled with high unemployment rates, particularly for women and youth. They encouraged the WBG to seek innovative solutions to address these challenges, including providing access to childcare and leveraging new technologies for skills development, to improve labor productivity. While recognizing the complex political economy, Directors underscored the need for further reforms to complete North Macedonia’s structural transformation with a focus on shared prosperity, promote a dynamic economy and help the country’s integration with regional value chains. They also underscored the need to help bolster local governments and institutional capacity and accelerate its access to the European Union. Directors noted the need for the Bank, IFC and MIGA to work together to promote private sector development to accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy mix. Finally, Directors encouraged continued close collaboration with other development partners. * This summary is not an approved record.