Republika Srpska closely follows the successes achieved by Serbia, and together we are working on many infrastructure-related issues. Some try to assign a political label to this cooperation, but in the end, what remains are the major projects we’ve completed together, said Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik during the panel discussion “Growth Plan – A Conversation with Leaders.”
Dodik noted that Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić was the one who launched the Open Balkan initiative.
“Countries like Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania have succeeded in implementing it. Republika Srpska wanted to be part of it, but in Bosnia and Herzegovina, there was no political will. Facilitating trade, the movement of goods, and people through such initiatives improves economic efficiency and delivers better results. Without creating a compatible system of communication, openness, and equal, transparent conditions for business, it’s very difficult to integrate the Balkans as a whole,” Dodik said.
He emphasized that Serbia is unquestionably the regional leader.
“Many fear Serbia’s strength in that regard, but that fear stems from outdated ideological delusions,” Dodik remarked.
Serbian Prime Minister Đuro Macut, who joined Dodik in the panel discussion, reiterated that the Western Balkans is an area of strategic interest for both Serbia and Republika Srpska—and that this is both a reality and a shared future.
“I am well-acquainted with the reality in which we live, and that certainly connects us. Republika Srpska has made significant progress, especially in transport infrastructure, but the economy still holds tremendous untapped potential,” Macut emphasized.
According to him, stable dialogue and peace are fundamental preconditions for regional connectivity.
“We must aim for sustainable growth that is also stable. Education is the foundation of any society, and that’s where we need to set clear standards. We must continuously work on improving all aspects of this sensitive area. We may be one of the most democratic communities in Europe—solving problems through dialogue,” Macut concluded.
Source: RTRS
