Serbia’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Ivica Dačić, stated that the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, and the President of the National Assembly, Nenad Stevandić, are citizens of Serbia, which is why Belgrade has sent a protest note to Interpol. He emphasized that the international warrants referenced by Bosnia and Herzegovina have not yet passed the review of Interpol’s General Secretariat regarding the conditions for issuance, and therefore cannot serve as grounds for action.
“Serbia firmly and decisively protects the rights and interests of its citizens, both domestically and internationally. Our country is committed to preserving the sovereignty and human rights of its citizens, recognizing that the protection of each individual is the foundation of our international obligations,” Dačić said in a statement.
He noted that, considering the individuals involved are Serbian citizens, Interpol Belgrade sent a protest note to the Interpol General Secretariat, stating that the requests for issuing international warrants violated Article 3 of the Interpol Constitution, which reads: “It is strictly forbidden for the Organization to undertake any intervention or activities of a political, military, religious or racial character.”
“I emphasize that Serbia advocates for compliance with international norms at all times, but at the same time, it will not allow any attempt by other states or international bodies to endanger the rights of our citizens,” Dačić stressed.
He underlined that Serbia is determined to continue defending its rights and the rights of its citizens on the global stage, respecting international legal frameworks, in accordance with its own values and principles.
The Interpol General Secretariat confirmed receipt of Serbia’s protest and stated that it would be taken into consideration, with the results of the review to be communicated to Serbia in a timely manner.
Source: RTRS
