PLAVŠIĆ: SERBS NEED UNITY

BELGRADE, JANUARY 1 /SRNA/ - Former Republika Srpska President Biljana Plavšić told SRNA that she is happy Republika Srpska will soon celebrate 33 years of existence and emphasized that Serbs need wisdom and unity.

"Republika Srpska has lasted longer than some events in our history. There is much to celebrate on January 9. Whether things seem more tense now or it only feels that way to us, I have the impression that the longer it lasts, the more certain it is that it will endure," Plavšić told SRNA. She assessed that the current situation is such that one cannot help but worry for Republika Srpska. However, she also emphasized that the Serbian people are accustomed to hardships, as history has consistently been challenging for them. Plavšić pointed out that attempts to destabilize Serbia pose a danger to Republika Srpska as well and welcomed the stance of Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik on the importance of unity between Serbia and Republika Srpska. "Of course, the order of priority for unity is clear - Serbia first, then Republika Srpska. Naturally, Kosovo is extremely important. If we allow it /the recognition of self-declared Kosovo/, I believe we will disappear," Plavšić said. She assessed that the West has shown ruthlessness in recent years, exerting pressure to "destroy the international Dayton Agreement." "These Westerners, they are so utterly inconsiderate! International agreements, once adopted, must be respected," said Plavšić. She emphasized that for the well-being of the Serbian people, it is essential to have a sense of what is permanent and stable. Acting based on personal interests endangers not only national interests but also the well-being of every individual within the Serbian community. "Reason and unity are needed!" Plavšić said. She warned that "everything is changing in the world" and that global changes are moving in the direction where "the small ones disappear". "But I hope and pray to God that we will survive. What has been done /the creation and preservation of Republika Srpska/ is a great achievement. Let us rejoice because of January 9!" Plavšić concluded. Republika Srpska will celebrate Republic Day and its 33nd anniversary on January 9. January 9 is celebrated as the Day of Republika Srpska because it marks the day in 1992 when it was established under the initial name of the Serbian Republic of BiH. It was founded by Serbian members of the then Assembly of BiH after they were outvoted on key issues regarding the survival of Yugoslavia, and members of the other two nations began seceding against the will of the Serbs, who had the status of a constituent people.