SUPPORT FOR THE PRESIDENT OF SRPSKA, SLOVENIAN CYCLISTS BARRED FROM USING NATIONAL SYMBOLS

BANJA LUKA, September 13 /SRNA/ - The Cycling Federation of Republika Srpska has expressed support for President Milorad Dodik after Slovenia imposed sanctions against him, announcing that it will officially inform the Slovenian federation that their cyclists may compete in Srpska but without the use of national symbols such as the flag or anthem.

"The Federation's position is that these sanctions are directed against the entire people, institutions, and sport of Republika Srpska. It is clear to everyone that the people stand with the president, as do all institutions, including sports," said Vladimir Kuvalja, Director of the Cycling Federation. He stated that the Federation will notify the Cycling Federation of Slovenia in an official and institutional manner, emphasizing that respect remains for the athletes themselves. "Slovenian cyclists will be able to compete only as part of clubs or individually. In that case, however, the use of national symbols, such as the flag or anthem, will not be permitted," Kuvalja stressed. He noted that Slovenian cyclists have always been welcome in Republika Srpska and in the sport in general. "They even won points at the international race 'Belgrade-Banja Luka' sufficient for participation in the Olympic Games. That is why we see this as a shameful move by the Slovenian government, but not as a reflection of the will of the Slovenian people," Kuvalja concluded. The Slovenian government yesterday imposed sanctions on Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, which include a ban on his entry into Slovenia, according to Slovenian media.