President of Republika Srpska Siniša Karan stated this evening that cooperation between Republika Srpska and Saint Petersburg is, in essence, cooperation between the Serb and Russian peoples.
Addressing guests at an official reception in Banja Luka marking the Days of Saint Petersburg in Republika Srpska, organized by the Government of Saint Petersburg, Karan said the event represents proof of friendship between the Serb and Russian peoples and a shared desire to further strengthen cooperation.
“This reception is proof of that friendship. It reflects our common desire for Republika Srpska and Saint Petersburg to further deepen and strengthen their cooperation,” Karan stated.
He expressed his honor and satisfaction at attending the reception organized by the Government of Saint Petersburg.
“This is another opportunity to confirm tonight that our strategic relations with the Russian Federation are based on mutual respect, understanding, and sincere friendship,” Karan said.
He recalled numerous implemented projects and high-level meetings that, according to him, demonstrate a strong commitment to further improving cooperation.
“Next year we will mark 20 years of our cooperation — the longest cooperation we have with anyone. We will launch a new project that will elevate our cooperation to an even higher level,” Karan stated.
The President of Republika Srpska emphasized that cooperation with Saint Petersburg in the fields of culture, healthcare, education, science, and economy has already been raised to the highest level.
“That cooperation has produced strong ties between our institutions, our people, and our two nations,” Karan added.
Yevgeny Grigoriev, host of the official reception, said in his address that Serbs from Republika Srpska and Serbia, as well as Russians, preserve and share the same faith.
“We fully understand you, and we understand one another,” Grigoriev stated.
He noted that relations between Serbs and Russians are historical and have led to the cooperation and ceremony held this evening.
“We managed to preserve our faith and our soul, and we continue moving forward. There can be many words and few deeds, but fortunately that is not the case with us. Our President Vladimir Putin has done a great deal. I would also like to thank our friend and respected colleague, Milorad Dodik,” Grigoriev stated.
The reception, held at the headquarters of the Government of Republika Srpska in Banja Luka, was attended by ministers of the Republika Srpska Government, Chairwoman of the Council of Peoples Srebrenka Golić, Vice President of the National Assembly Anja Ljubojević, members of parliament, and numerous guests.
Source: RTRS
