CVIJANOVIĆ: NUMEROUS BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN SRPSKA

BANJA LUKA, MAY 28 /SRNA/ - There are numerous business and investment opportunities in Republika Srpska that foreign partners have not yet seriously considered, and Republika Srpska believes that the time has come not only to turn a new page, but to start a new chapter that can change the course of future events, said Serb member of the BiH Presidency Željka Cvijanović.

"Unfortunately, not everyone in BiH shares this perspective, and Republika Srpska has, over the years, suffered considerable damage as a result of various obstructions at the level of BiH regarding the implementation of major investment projects," said Cvijanović in her address during the European Summit on Economy and Security in Banja Luka. According to her, from today's perspective, it is difficult even to name all such projects - from energy initiatives and road and air transport infrastructure projects to the most recent example: the obstruction of the opening of the new, modern border crossing with Croatia, which could significantly improve BiH's transport connectivity with the EU while facilitating and reducing costs for citizens and export-oriented businesses. "We are convinced that the focus must shift from nation‑building toward economic development and investment, and we appreciate the support of the United States in this approach. For too long, BiH has been defined internationally by war, instability, and political strife, leaving economic development and investment overlooked," Cvijanović emphasized. She assessed that BiH, even three decades after the conflict, is still too often viewed as a "problem case" rather than a credible partner. "To keep pace with modern technologies and global progress, this outdated perception must end and we must turn to economic development and healthier political relations. We are ready to give our contribution in this regard. We can see the US is ready, too and it is logical to expect the same from other partners both domestically and internationally," Cvijanović stated. She once again expressed her gratitude to the representatives of the Gold Institute for their decision to organize the summit and their future activities in Banja Luka. "We believe that it is a good foundation for a lasting partnership. I wish you all a pleasant stay in the Republika Srpska and hope you take wonderful memories with you. Thank you for inviting me here," said Cvijanović.