Therefore their quality, impartiality and timeliness are crucial for successful functioning of the economy of any country. In addition, the statistical indicators are also a basis for the comparative analyses with the economies of other countries and are essentially relevant for positioning of the economy, worldwide. Statistics in the National Bank The National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia is largely focused on the design and the development of the statistics. Two years ago, in the process of reorganization of the National Bank operations, a separate Statistics Department was formed that unites all macroeconomic statistics, previously processed in several departments. Its establishment constitutes a centralized organization of the macroeconomic statistics maintained by the National Bank. It ensures larger coordination, methodological conformity and consistence between each type of statistics. The National Bank of the Republic of Macedonia, together with the State Statistical Office are main institutions that prepare statistical data in the country.
It is clear from this economic integration that the fear of the region’s borders considerably compromising economic development cannot be confirmed. Rather, the diminishing, relative importance of intra-regional foreign trade and intra-regional cross-border direct investment is due more to globalisation and the ensuing increase in the influence of Eastern European and Asian economies than to weakening ties within the Upper Rhine region. Thirdly, the most notable aspect of the relationship between the region’s two currencies since the introduction of the euro in 1999 is its stability. That does not mean, however, that the issue of Switzerland’s ascension to the EU is of no consequence. Having its own currency allows Switzerland to conduct an independent monetary policy that is tailored to suit its needs. Finally, the economic policy can help the region thrive further by removing remaining hurdles, such as those in the labour market and in the exchange of goods and services (Cassis de Dijon principle). A well-integrated economic region is the key to a prosperous future. “Three nations, two currencies, one economic area” - the title of the paper - not only describes the reality, it also maps out the way forward. BIS Review 45/2005  1