GRUSHKO: BEING HOSTED IN BANJA LUKA IS HONOUR FOR US

BANJA LUKA, APRIL 21 /SRNA/ – Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Alexander Grushko stated that it was a great honour for the Russian delegation to be hosted by the Republika Srpska leadership, with whom they continued dialogue on a wide range of bilateral issues and the international agenda, particularly in the field of security in the Balkans.

Following the meeting with Republika Srpska officials in Banja Luka, Grushko emphasized that Republika Srpska - Russia bilateral relations rest on the strongest foundation of support. "Republika Srpska and Russia are bound by the history of states and the destiny of their peoples," Grushko said at a press conference. He noted that this serves as a guideline in building mutual priorities and perspectives toward a new multilateral world order, which must be based on the principles of respect, equality, and mutual respect. Grushko said that today's meeting once again addressed practical issues of strengthening ties between Russia and Republika Srpska. "We noted progress in the fields of trade, economy, humanitarian cooperation, and education. We agreed on directions for organising concrete activities in these areas in the coming period," Grushko stated. He emphasized that Russia fully understands that the unlawful sanctions imposed by the West cannot affect its bilateral relations with Republika Srpska. "We are ready to move forward with the implementation of agreed goals," Grushko added. The meeting at the Palace of the Republic was also attended by National Assembly Speaker Nenad Stevandić, Prime Minister Savo Minić, Serb deputy to the House of Peoples of BiH Radovan Kovačević, and SNSD leader Milorad Dodik. The Russian Ambassador to BiH Igor Kalabukhov also attended the meeting.