The Minister for Scientific and Technological Development and Higher Education of Republika Srpska, Željko Budimir, stated that he does not understand the reasons behind EUFOR’s activities in Banja Luka, particularly the helicopter flyovers. He emphasized that he expects the Althea mission to continue being objective in assessing the situation on the ground.
“It seems to me that they have succumbed to Sarajevo’s speculations, which constantly sends threats towards Republika Srpska, while at the same time, the leadership of Republika Srpska, its people, and its institutions consistently call for peace, adherence to the law, and respect for the constitution,” Budimir said.
He stressed that, on the other hand, there are no security threats, nor will there be any, and questioned whether the women who gathered today at Krajina Square for International Women’s Day posed a security risk, warranting an EUFOR helicopter flyover.
Budimir pointed out that the Althea mission’s goal is to remain objective and neutral, realistically assessing the situation on the ground. He emphasized that the situation in Republika Srpska is very clear—there are no challenges or threats against anyone on any grounds—so the mission should act accordingly.
“If they become susceptible to the speculations and hysteria of embassies and political Sarajevo towards Republika Srpska, then they will lose all objectivity and will no longer contribute to fostering a political climate of dialogue within BiH,” Budimir warned.
He underlined the importance of the Althea mission maintaining its established role.
“Republika Srpska has confidence in this mission and supports it through its foreign policy advisors and through voting and confirming its mandate in the UN Security Council. Therefore, we expect the Althea mission to continue being objective in assessing the situation on the ground, just as it has been so far,” Budimir concluded.
Source: RTRS
