The visit of Republika Srpska’s President, Milorad Dodik, to Hungary is of significant importance, especially given Hungary’s interest in expanding cooperation with Srpska, as Hungary currently holds the presidency of the European Union, stated the Minister of Scientific and Technological Development and Higher Education, Željko Budimir.
In a statement to Srna, Budimir highlighted Hungary’s strong support for the integration process of Western Balkan countries into the EU.
“During our meeting, we informed Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó about the challenges we face in BiH’s negotiations with the EU. Hungarian officials briefed us on the latest developments within the EU, and it was crucial for us to learn about the results of Hungary’s peace initiative regarding relations between Kyiv and Moscow,” said Budimir.
He emphasized Hungary’s close relations and cooperation with other EU countries and underscored Budapest’s important role in Brussels, especially in its cooperation with Germany and France.
“Hungary plays a crucial role within the EU. Look at the peace initiative led by Orban. The country is interested in expanding the EU to include the Western Balkans, not only for economic and political reasons but also for security concerns,” added Budimir, who is also a professor of international relations.
He noted that migration remains a significant issue, along with the challenges it brings, and that Hungary recognizes these threats.
When it comes to cooperation with Republika Srpska, Budimir highlighted Hungary’s continued support for agricultural projects and the provision of machinery at favorable prices. He also mentioned discussions about energy cooperation.
“Hungarians are also interested in providing incentives for small and medium-sized enterprises,” noted Budimir.
Hungary Supports Trump, a Peace Policy also Backed by Dodik
Minister Budimir emphasized Hungary’s unique geopolitical position, pointing out that it is one of the few countries maintaining open relations with both the East and the West.
He added that Budapest has strong ties not only with Moscow but also with Beijing, and it unequivocally supports Republican candidate Donald Trump in the upcoming U.S. presidential election.
“This aligns with the policy of President Milorad Dodik, who has also expressed support for Trump. We’ve seen that in the U.S., the campaign is being waged not only in the media but with weapons, as Trump recently survived a second assassination attempt,” said Budimir.
Discussing the upcoming U.S. presidential elections, Budimir noted that it is difficult to predict the direction of U.S. foreign policy, and he does not expect significant changes to the power-based approach currently in place.
“U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has often misunderstood the political dynamics in sensitive regions, such as the Middle East and Ukraine, which is the central issue. The global situation is becoming increasingly complex, and Russia’s role, as well as the position of EU countries that have connections with Moscow, is particularly important,” Budimir pointed out.
Srpska’s Leadership Policy is Based on Preserving Sovereignty, and No One Will Abandon This
Regarding the pressures on Republika Srpska, Budimir stated that those pursuing such policies are aging out, which will eventually change the perspective on the Balkans.
“The new individuals entering the State Department do not have personal issues with representatives of Republika Srpska. This presents an opportunity for Srpska. However, what matters most is what we do, not how others perceive us,” Budimir emphasized.
He stressed that the policy of safeguarding national interests and protecting Serbs will not be abandoned, and that this policy must continue to thrive in Republika Srpska at all costs.
“Regardless of the pressures, this is the only way we can ensure our survival in this region. Every day is a victory for Republika Srpska when it comes to foreign policy, and I am not pessimistic about Srpska’s status or the continuation of the current political direction,” Budimir concluded.
Source: RTRS
