DODIK: IMPORTANT PROJECTS IN THE BALKANS LINKED TO COOPERATION BETWEEN HUNGARY, SERBIA AND SRPSKA

BUDAPEST, SEPTEMBER 4 /SRNA/ - Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik said on Thursday evening in Budapest that important projects in the Balkans today are linked to cooperation between Hungary, Serbia, and Republika Srpska, and that he remains committed to further improving relations with Hungary and other countries that seek peace and stability.

Dodik emphasized that this is particularly important at present, as the Balkan region is experiencing turbulent times, and Republika Srpska is facing the forcible alteration of its electoral will. “It is important to us that we have a steadfast friend in the Hungarian government who advocates for peace, and this is evident,” Dodik said in his address at the official opening of the “Serbian Days – Month of Serbian Culture in Hungary” event. Dodik added that it is important for him to see every cultural event of Hungary take place in Republika Srpska as well. “Culture is the path of our cooperation and existence, a strong shield to protect us from attacks, and I wish for us to live in peace, with Hungary, Serbia, and Republika Srpska demonstrating in the days ahead a steadfast will for joint action,” Dodik said. He added that the “Serbian Days – Month of Serbian Culture in Hungary” event reflects the desire to come together to dignifiedly commemorate the centuries-long presence of Serbs in Hungary. He emphasized that the event is dedicated to the development of good relations and to the Serbian national community, which has been present in this region for more than 300 years. “Serbs have left indelible marks in politics, culture, and science, and have contributed to diversity,” Dodik stressed. He said that the Hungarian government, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, reciprocates generously toward the Serbian national community and finances various projects. “This understanding and good relations have enabled the best relations between Serbia, Republika Srpska, and Hungary. The two peoples can share the same space and independently determine their relations,” Dodik emphasized. He said that Republika Srpska was born in difficult times and represents the will and the state of the Serbian people, and that it never intended to be an enemy to anyone. With a great applause from those present, Dodik announced the official opening of the “Serbian Days – Month of Serbian Culture in Hungary” event and thanked everyone attending the ceremony.