The Russian ambassador to BiH, Igor Kalabukhov, expressed his gratitude to the president of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, for his principled stance in developing comprehensive relations with the Russian Federation.
Kalabukhov recalled that Dodik has had multiple meetings with the president of Russia, Vladimir Putin, and noted that there will be more such encounters. He mentioned that the president of Republika Srpska has accepted his Russian counterpart’s invitation to participate in the May 9 parade next year in Moscow, which will provide another opportunity to discuss all relevant issues.
“Of course, when it comes to economic cooperation, we wish for it to progress as actively as possible, although there are objective obstacles in this regard,” Kalabukhov stated to Srna.
He emphasized that an extensive communication network has been established in the relations between Russia and Republika Srpska and noted numerous meetings at the ministerial level, where officials participate in significant events in Russia.
“This already creates new potential, and once the general international situation improves, I expect we will have opportunities for further development in certain economic areas,” Kalabukhov pointed out.
He expressed particular satisfaction with the development of humanitarian cooperation between Republika Srpska and Russia.
“This year has seen a creative surge in this area, especially concerning the Russian language and connections between our universities. Delegations from our universities, such as Tula University, visited Republika Srpska, and representatives from Republika Srpska attended events in Russia,” Kalabukhov noted.
The Russian ambassador also expressed his desire to foster regional connections, such as initiatives from cities in Republika Srpska to establish twinning arrangements with Russian cities.
“I believe the highlight of this cooperation will be the construction of the Russian-Serb temple in Banja Luka, where there is also a Russian-Serb center,” Kalabukhov remarked.
The Russian ambassador concluded that Republika Srpska and Russia maintain extensive bilateral ties across multiple domains and expressed hope for numerous positive outcomes in the coming year.
Source: RTRS
