The economic, commercial, and cultural ties between Republika Srpska and Serbia are growing stronger.
The construction of the Bijeljina – Rača highway is the largest project financed by the two governments, benefiting not only the citizens and businesses of Semberija and Majevica but also those in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Republika Srpska and Serbia are building the roads of the future, meant for coming and not just leaving. Several modern roads are planned, with the Bijeljina – Rača highway section being an integral part of the future Banja Luka – Bijeljina – Belgrade highways. The 20-kilometer section is financed by the governments of Republika Srpska and Serbia.
- So far, most of the funds have been invested by us from the Republika Srpska Highways and the Government of Republika Srpska. Of course, Serbia has also invested around 10 million euros, and we expect another donation of 10 million euros for the construction of this section – said Nedeljko Ćorić, director of Republika Srpska Highways.
Negotiations are underway with a bank to finance the section from Bijeljina to Brčko. Preparatory work is in progress on the Brčko – Vukosavlje section. The construction of the highway from Bijeljina to Rača is a national project of Republika Srpska and Serbia.
The benefits will be felt not only by citizens. Without modern roads, there can be no economic development.
Zoran Škrebić, president of the Union of Employers of Republika Srpska, says that this highway towards Belgrade will reduce traffic congestion, especially during the summer, as it is a major route for traffic from the east, especially Turkey, to Western Europe and is very busy.
The bridge on the Sava, connecting Sremska Rača and Rača, as well as Republika Srpska and Serbia, is proof that there are no barriers between the two peoples.
Miloš Vučević, Prime Minister of Serbia, emphasized that there is much that unites us and that we should not allow administration to divide us. He noted that a simpler crossing benefits the citizens of both Republika Srpska and Serbia, as well as all those who use this road.
Milorad Dodik, President of Republika Srpska, stated that this highway changes the character of the region and is very significant for Republika Srpska.
- This is the largest investment Bijeljina has ever had. The road costs 258 million marks, and Republika Srpska has already paid 100 million marks from its own funds for the construction of the section.
Citizens support the construction of the Bijeljina – Rača highway as it represents an even stronger connection with Serbia, highlighting that it is like a bloodstream in the body, and good roads allow us to reach destinations faster, make a profit, work, and live…
The bridge over the Sava River was financed by the Government of Serbia. The integrated border crossing will be built in Serbia. The deadline for the construction of the highway through Semberija is the end of 2025.
Source: RTRS
