French Member of the European Parliament, Thierry Mariani, stated at a press conference in Banja Luka that he came to express his support for the Serb people and the institutions of Republika Srpska, emphasizing that they are “victims of an illegitimate and severe condemnation.”
“The officials of Republika Srpska are victims of an illegitimate and severe condemnation. I support the right of every nation to choose its own future,” Mariani said during the press conference with the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik.
He pointed out that similar problems exist within the European Union, where, as he noted, the rule of law is often not respected.
“We are going through similar situations in Europe, where the law is bypassed, just like here. In the European Parliament as well, decisions are sometimes proclaimed contrary to the law,” Mariani said.
Mariani emphasized that he is part of the third most powerful political group in the European Parliament and added that he would like to see Republika Srpska have its voice heard in the European Parliament.
“It would be good for Republika Srpska to be part of our political group, so that what matters can be heard,” he stated.
He particularly criticized the role of Christian Schmidt in Bosnia and Herzegovina, stating that Schmidt’s decisions are contrary to the law and international legal standards.
“It is absolutely abnormal that in the 21st century, in the heart of Europe, there is a territory governed by a citizen of any country, in this case a German. I cannot imagine such a thing happening in France,” Mariani stressed.
He recalled that he had also visited Banja Luka in 2022 to attend the celebration of January 9 – Republika Srpska Day, and expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to once again meet with the officials of Republika Srpska.
Source: RTRS
