DODIK: THE DIOCESE OF BUDA IS PROOF OF CENTURIES-LONG PRESENCE OF SERBS, SRPSKA SUPPORTS THE SERBIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH

BUDAPEST, June 4 /SRNA/ – Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik has said today in Budapest that the Serbian Orthodox Church /SOC/ enjoys significant respect in Hungary, and that support from Republika Srpska, Serbia, as well as local Hungarian authorities, has not been lacking when it comes to the restoration of churches and support for the education of Serb children.

"It is an honour to be here, to discuss not only local issues but also the broader situation. This diocese is proof of our historical presence here. That is why we from Republika Srpska and Serbia must show more willingness and effort to support our community and the Serbian Orthodox Church," Dodik told the press in Budapest after meeting with Metropolitan Lukijan of Buda. He has emphasized the visible development and progress of the Serb community, noting that this would not be possible without the support of the Hungarian authorities and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. "It's wonderful to be here. I met with our students from Republika Srpska. They are very satisfied and dedicated. They regularly attend church services," Dodik noted. He has stated that Republika Srpska, as a state and government, has built or renovated more than 1,040 churches in Republika Srpska, the Federation of BiH, and abroad. "We have built three or four monasteries. Our Republic, our state, and our Church cooperate in the best possible way. It is a relationship of cooperation and brotherly love. It is important to preserve our Church, especially when our people face challenges," Dodik said. He has pointed out that the Church is an authority and has never been outside social processes, adding that there are times when the Church must speak out on current issues. "For the Church to maintain its authority, we as politicians and statesmen must support it. When there is no other dialogue, we must seek its opinion. I am pleased that Republika Srpska is committed to our faith and Church," Dodik said. He has reiterated that Republika Srpska unreservedly supports the Serbian Orthodox Church and that faith is never called into question. "I am glad that many of our people in Republika Srpska are very devoted to their faith and regularly attend liturgies," Dodik emphasized. He said he invited Metropolitan Lukijan to visit Republika Srpska. "I believe we will see each other soon in Republika Srpska," Dodik said. Metropolitan Lukijan presented President Milorad Dodik with a Charter of Gratitude for love, kindness, and efforts. Dodik is on a working visit to Hungary at the invitation of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. He previously stated that he expected to discuss strategic projects in the fields of energy and agriculture with Orbán.