KARAN: WE HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO CONTRIBUTE TO SRPSKA'S DEVELOPMENT

BANJA LUKA, SEPTEMBER 4 /SRNA/ - Republika Srpska President Siniša Karan said that the Republika Srpska Investment and Business Cooperation Forum for Chinese companies, which opened today in Banja Luka, is the best evidence that Srpska has the potential to contribute to its development.

"Such forums and investment in Republika Srpska are the best indication of its strength, investment opportunities, and potential, which we have to offer for the further development of Republika Srpska," Karan said. He highlighted the importance of the forum, noting that the large and powerful China is interested in Republika Srpska, which, he said, demonstrates the extent of Srpska's potential, both utilized and untapped. Karan said that Republika Srpska is offering its potential to the whole world, and reminded that the Israeli Chamber of Commerce in Republika Srpska opened in Banja Luka last night. "We previously had contacts with American and Russian businesspeople as well. All of this is the result of the persistent and determined efforts over many years by the leadership of Srpska to create an environment that attracts major economies to Republika Srpska," Karan told reporters. He said that it was important first and foremost to create a strong environment so that Republika Srpska is recognized as a safe place for investment, that it is politically strong, and that its administrative barriers allow capital to flow freely. "Our interests are mutual. We have things to offer them, just as they have things to offer us, and this is the right way for politics and the business community to work together to build a strong Republika Srpska," Karan said. The Republika Srpska Investment and Business Cooperation Forum for Chinese companies began today in Banja Luka in the presence of numerous Republika Srpska officials, as well as Chinese and local businesspeople. It was organized by the Chamber of Commerce and the Republika Srpska Government. The forum brings together representatives of Republika Srpska institutions, the business community, and academia with representatives of Chinese companies and institutions with the aim of enhancing economic cooperation, presenting Srpska's investment potential, and creating new opportunities for business partnerships and investment.