The National Financial Inclusion Committee Holds Its Eleventh Meeting

Today, The National Financial Inclusion Committee in Palestine held its eleventh meeting at the headquarters of the PMA. The meeting was co-chaired by the Palestine Monetary Authority and the Capital Market Authority, and attended by H.E. the PMA Governor, Mr. Yahya Shunnar; the Chairman of the Capital Market Authority, Mr. Ammar Aker; H.E. the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Abdul Razeq Natshe; along with other committee members.

During the meeting, the committee reviewed the main achievements in the field of financial inclusion over the past period and approved the action plan for the National Financial Inclusion Strategy for 2026–2028. The committee also recommended submitting a proposal to the Council of Ministers to include the Ministry of Labor as a member of the National Financial Inclusion Committee, aiming to enhance cooperation among government institutions and expand the reach of financial services to beneficiaries.

 H.E. the PMA Governor, Mr. Yahya Shunnar, emphasized that the current circumstances and the challenges of this phase require a concerted effort among various entities to enhance financial inclusion in Palestine and ensure access to financial services for all segments of society. He explained that the PMA continues to develop the digital infrastructure of the financial sector, promote innovation, and support the use of electronic payment methods, alongside implementing initiatives that contribute to the transition toward a digital economy, most notably through the adoption of the Reduction Use of Cash Law.

The Governor pointed out that the Financial Inclusion Action Plan for 2026–2028 focuses on developing financial services and products, particularly for small enterprises and marginalized groups, expanding the use of financial technology, and improving digital infrastructure. In addition, the plan aims to support the legislative environment, enhance financial literacy and consumer protection, and elevate the quality of financial services, while directing attention to promising financial sectors that contribute to achieving inclusive and sustainable economic development.

For his part, the Chairman of the Capital Market Authority, Mr. Ammar Aker, emphasized the importance of enhancing financial inclusion and expanding cooperation between government and private institutions. He affirmed that including the Ministry of Labor will help enable a broader segment of Palestinian society to access financial services and support small and medium-sized enterprises.

Aker also highlighted the ongoing work of the Capital Market Authority’s programs, which directly contribute to promoting financial inclusion and reducing the financial burden on citizens amid the difficult circumstances in Palestine. These include providing incentive discounts for E-payment of insurance policy premiums, ongoing efforts to develop agricultural insurance and microinsurance products, as well as focusing on awareness campaigns aimed at protecting the rights of users of non-banking financial services, particularly in dealing with forex markets.

The meeting featured in-depth discussions and valuable contributions from participants regarding the pivotal role of financial inclusion in supporting development pathways and promoting economic equity, as well as its direct contribution to mitigating rising unemployment and poverty, particularly under the current circumstances. Attendees affirmed their commitment to continuing efforts to implement initiatives that enhance financial inclusion across all relevant levels, thereby strengthening the national economy and ensuring access to financial services for all segments of society.