Serb member of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina Željka Cvijanović has stated that Republika Srpska has every right to lobby for its interests in the United States, emphasizing that such activities are both legitimate and legal.
According to Cvijanović, these efforts have caused frustration among those who oppose changing long-established perceptions of Republika Srpska.
Strengthening international relations and attracting investment
Cvijanović stressed that Republika Srpska also has the right to promote its interests within major international institutions, including the United Nations and the UN Security Council.
“We want to attract more investment to Republika Srpska and strengthen our position internationally so that our interests are better understood,” Cvijanović said.
“We also want to finally break free from the stereotypes that have been imposed on us and maintained for at least 30 years,” she added.
She argued that Republika Srpska’s efforts to establish a stronger international presence have provoked criticism from political actors who prefer to maintain existing perceptions.
Election results provide a mandate for international engagement
Speaking to the Provjereno news portal, Cvijanović said that the recent elections in BiH and Republika Srpska had provided a clear message from voters.
“Elections have been held in BiH and Republika Srpska. We received the support of the people and their message about what we should do: build relationships with key international actors and represent our own interests,” she stated.
Cvijanović claimed that pursuing such policies through BiH-level institutions had not been possible because, in her view, political leaders in Sarajevo had used institutional resources to damage Republika Srpska’s reputation internationally.
She also accused Sarajevo-based political representatives of seeking sanctions against Republika Srpska leaders through what she described as illegitimate high representatives and the Constitutional Court of BiH, which includes foreign judges.
Focus on economic stability and institutional development
Despite these challenges, Cvijanović maintained that Republika Srpska remains stable and expects to form its executive authorities quickly following the elections.
She said the priorities would include improving citizens’ living standards, attracting domestic and foreign investment, and strengthening the economy.
“We want and are seeking financial support for our economy and institutions. We are examining how to enter the next year financially, with the intention of ensuring stability,” Cvijanović explained.
She emphasized that the leadership of Republika Srpska intends to focus on practical political and economic issues while defending its constitutional competencies.
“We are dealing with real politics and the economy. We do not intend to take anything away from anyone, but we will defend our competencies without crawling before anyone,” she said.
According to preliminary election results cited in the report, Cvijanović secured a convincing victory and a second term as the Serb member of the Presidency of BiH.
Source: RTRS
