The visit of world, European and Russian champion Galina Maslovskaya to Serbia and Republika Srpska represents another step in strengthening sporting ties between the Serb and Russian peoples, while also demonstrating that the support Russian athletes received from Serbia and Republika Srpska has not been forgotten, according to Vladimir Kuvalja.
During her visit, Maslovskaya said Russian athletes deeply appreciate the support they received while facing restrictions on the international sporting stage.
“My visit to Serbia and Republika Srpska marks an important step in strengthening sports cooperation between our peoples,” Maslovskaya said.
She added that Serbia and Republika Srpska stood by Russian athletes during a period when they faced numerous limitations in international competition, a gesture that continues to be highly valued by the Russian sporting community.
“I would especially like to thank Vladimir Kuvalja, who has remained committed to the principle that sport must be above politics. His decision to have the national anthem of the Russian Federation played after Maria Letayeva’s victory at the World Championship in East Sarajevo sent a powerful message that sport should unite people rather than divide them. Mr. Kuvalja is regarded as a hero in Russia. I have known him since 2022, when we first met in Russia, and we have remained in contact ever since. It was a great honor for him to host me during my stay in Serbia and Republika Srpska,” Maslovskaya said.
Kuvalja described the visit by one of Russia’s most successful athletes as recognition of Republika Srpska and its approach toward Russian competitors.
“Galina Maslovskaya’s visit shows that Russian athletes have not forgotten Republika Srpska, which stood by them during the most difficult period. From the very beginning, I have advocated that sport should remain above politics, and I believe that international sport is incomplete without Russian athletes. Her visit is a significant acknowledgment of Republika Srpska and proof that genuine friendship, consistency, and principled positions are recognized and respected,” Kuvalja said.
He also emphasized the importance of institutional support provided by Republika Srpska for developing international cooperation.
“We owe special gratitude to the President of Republika Srpska, Milorad Dodik, whose engagement has contributed to strengthening the international standing of Republika Srpska. It has been our responsibility to continue and expand that cooperation through sport,” Kuvalja added.
According to the editorial statement, Vladimir Kuvalja has been awarded the Order of Friendship of the Russian Federation, conferred by decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin, in recognition of his contribution to the development of international sports cooperation and his advocacy for keeping sport above political divisions.
The Order of Friendship is a high state decoration of the Russian Federation awarded to both Russian citizens and foreign nationals for outstanding contributions to strengthening friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding among nations.
Source: RTRS
