For Republika Srpska, the past year has been challenging in terms of its international position. New geopolitical circumstances have been recognized, which is particularly evident in relations with the United States.
Traditionally good relations with Moscow, Beijing, and certain European capitals show that Republika Srpska has managed to take advantage of the new geopolitical moment and position itself as an unavoidable factor in discussions.
There is still work to be done, especially when it comes to Brussels. However, analysts say that awareness is gradually changing there as well, and Republika Srpska is being placed on the table as an actor with whom solutions must be sought.
Significant progress has been made in presenting Republika Srpska, its positions, and the visibility of its positive policies, said Luciano Caluza, an international relations expert, speaking to RTRS.
The results of that work have not been lacking, as best demonstrated by the lifting of U.S. sanctions.
“The starting positions are very strong. Republika Srpska has positioned itself as a partner of the United States. The partnership with the Russian Federation continues, and not only is it not threatened in any way, it has actually grown,” Caluza emphasized.
According to Caluza, economic relations with China are excellent, and the next step is work with European Union countries. Some states already acknowledge Republika Srpska, while as for official Brussels and others, they are following U.S. policy developments as well.
“Of course, they are monitoring U.S. policy, so Republika Srpska is entering this phase more relaxed on one hand, but on the other, I believe additional energy is needed to maintain this pace in the period ahead,” Caluza said.
Republika Srpska has the energy to strengthen its international position further. Internal strengthening is also necessary in order to achieve even better results in foreign policy.
“This is a year in which we preserved our economy, our peace, and our institutions—a year in which we left behind, redefined, and improved our international position. That is why I want to tell everyone that in Republika Srpska we must unite around what Republika Srpska is. Republika Srpska must demonstrate its unity,” said Milorad Dodik, president of the SNSD.
There are also those within Republika Srpska who view meetings between its officials and leaders such as Putin, Orbán, or Fico unfavorably, and who criticize relations with Washington. Banja Luka has extended a hand to those who support local agreements without foreign interference, according to representatives of the Congress of Serb-American Friendship.
“I believe this is the moment—what is now commonly called momentum—to use it to the fullest for the benefit of the economy, the geopolitical positioning of Republika Srpska, and ultimately for the benefit of the Serb people in Republika Srpska,” said Vladimir Marinković, president of the Congress of Serb-American Friendship.
Although remnants of the Biden administration’s policies are still visible, the voice and position of Republika Srpska in the new geopolitical circumstances are more prominent than ever. The time has come for what has long been advocated from Banja Luka to finally happen—talk to us, not to others about us.
Source: RTRS
