The Government’s response to the crisis in the country was timely and it still is, but it is clear that it needs to continue, said World Bank Country Manager Massimiliano Paolucci on Wednesday.

“As in any other country, the pandemic has its influence in North Macedonia, and that influence depends on the country’s capacities. The earliest and the strongest measures will reduce the effect, especially on the most vulnerable groups. The authorities have had a timely response in resources. The elections had a certain influence on the continuity and speed of delivery, but the response was there, it still is, but it is also clear it will have to continue, towards establishing the economic positions in a sustainable way,” Paolucci told a joint press conference with Economy Minister Kreshnik Bekteshi and British Ambassador Rachel Galloway.

He added that the measures must be targeted and especially consider the most vulnerable categories.

According to him, policies putting health as top priority must resume, because the economic effect of the pandemic would be increased if health is not taken into account.

“We have to focus on key reforms towards renewed and sustainable growth,” added Paolucci.