The 8th Jahorina Economic Forum, the leading regional event in the field of economics, is currently being held under the theme “Western Balkans Agenda – Growth Plan.”
Gathering 600 participants from 20 countries, the forum serves as a platform to address economic challenges and strategies for development, held under the patronage of Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik.
Among the key speakers was Serbian Prime Minister Đuro Macut, whose appearance marked his first official visit to Republika Srpska. Speaking alongside Dodik on the central panel “Growth Plan – A Conversation with Leaders,” both emphasized that joint infrastructure projects between Serbia and Srpska represent a shared future.
President Dodik highlighted the economic stability of Republika Srpska, citing a 2 billion KM increase in GDP as proof of the region’s resilience and openness to cooperation. He underlined that stable politics are a prerequisite for economic progress, noting the accomplishments made despite highly unfavorable conditions.
“Imagine what we could achieve without political obstacles—with the innovation of the Serb people and the organizational capacity of our institutions,” said Dodik. “In such disordered economic conditions, the success of both Serbia and Srpska is remarkable.”
Prime Minister Macut stressed that peace and stability are essential for regional economic cooperation, admitting that recent challenges in Serbia had slowed its own development:
“We now have significant experience—though I can’t say it’s positive. It has left a negative mark on our economy. Still, that experience can help us overcome similar situations, wherever they may arise in Europe,” Macut noted.
During the forum, Dodik and Macut agreed to continue cooperation between Serbia and Republika Srpska across all sectors and complete ongoing projects.
Dodik emphasized that Srpska achieved a 2.9% growth rate last year, calling it a notable accomplishment in today’s global context:
“That growth enabled a 2 billion KM increase in GDP, and we also recorded 2.8 billion KM in investments last year,” Dodik said.
Forum objectives and vision
The Jahorina Economic Forum remains one of the most significant regional platforms for economic dialogue, aimed at strengthening the economy and creating a unified market.
“We have all the conditions needed to brand this region as a market of the future, a space for new technologies and a place people return to. I believe we have the capacity to create a growth plan using our own resources. With international support, yes—but the initiative and direction must come from us,” concluded Goran Račić, President of the Economic Forum.
The event brings together leaders from politics, economics, the private and public sectors, as well as representatives of international organizations and investors, reaffirming its reputation as a key hub for economic cooperation in the Western Balkans.
Source: RTRS
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