CVIJANOVIĆ: THE STATE OF ISRAEL APPRECIATES SRPSKA'S EFFORTS; DIFFICULT HISTORICAL EXPERIENCES CONNECT US

JERUSALEM, JUNE 21 /SRNA/ – The State of Israel appreciates the efforts of Republika Srpska, while friendship and shared difficult historical experiences provide a foundation for better mutual understanding, said Željka Cvijanović, the Serb BiH Presidency member.

She expressed satisfaction that Srpska can rely on Israel, emphasizing that there are numerous similarities in the political positions and approaches promoted by Republika Srpska and Israel in the international arena. It is precisely those similarities that constitute an important basis for continuing and deepening cooperation. Following a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Cvijanović said the talks were held in a very friendly, open, and constructive atmosphere and had confirmed good relations, partnership, mutual understanding, and a commitment to further enhancing cooperation between Republika Srpska and Israel. "Republika Srpska regards Israel as a friendly state, and certain difficult historical experiences also connect us providing a basis for better understanding," Cvijanović told RTRS. She pointed out that there are many areas of overlap on the global stage between the policies promoted by Israel and Republika Srpska, and that these common positions serve as points of connection for maintaining and advancing good relations. The discussions also focused on strengthening economic ties. Cvijanović explained that Herzog expressed readiness to support more intensive economic cooperation, including links between business entities, investments, and the development of tourism projects. She noted that there had been positive initiatives in the past, particularly in tourism cooperation, but that global circumstances and armed conflicts in recent years had slowed some of those activities. "Herzog said that, on his part, he would help us strengthen our economic ties in the future, but that it is also fundamentally important for our political understanding to remain intact," she said. Speaking about political topics, Cvijanović stated that she had briefed the Israeli president on political developments in BiH, as well as issues concerning the functioning of the country's joint institutions. According to her, Herzog is familiar with developments in the Western Balkans and demonstrated an understanding of the region's complex political situation. "He listened with surprise to some of the things concerning BiHa, but I was delighted by how much he already knew. He wished us peace, stability, and a secure future, and encouraged us not to give up the struggle for our constitutional rights," Cvijanović concluded. She added that during her visit to Israel she would participate in two conferences and that she was honoured by the invitation.