TELIĆ: AWARD TO DODIK OPENS SPACE FOR STRONGER TIES WITH USA

CHICAGO, MAY 1 /SRNA/ – BiH’s Consul General in Chicago Tatjana Telić assessed that the award presented by US-based Judson University to SNSD leader Milorad Dodik represents a step forward in relations between the United States and Republika Srpska, creating conditions for a new environment and more open dialogue.

She noted that Dodik dedicated the award to Republika Srpska, adding that the audience at the ceremony responded very positively. "It is difficult to expect major breakthroughs overnight in international and geopolitical circumstances within such a short period, but everything we do, including this event, is a significant contribution to affirming Republika Srpska and its positions more broadly", Telić said. She emphasized that in his speech, Dodik highlighted numerous issues, provided a broad historical context and pointed to the importance of respecting international law and dialogue. "He addressed everything related to democratic values, respect for the will of the people, democratically elected leaders and a departure from international interventionism, which is particularly present in BiH. There was also a message of peace and stability, dialogue and open communication as prerequisites for better development of our region and the world in general", Telić told RTRS. Speaking about the role of Serbs in the United States, she said that the Serbian community in Chicago plays an active role and serves as a bridge between the two countries. "There is increasing organization and stronger ties with our institutions, which contributes to the community's role in various processes - through cultural diplomacy and business engagement - further strengthening these connections and presenting our people in the United States", she stated. Telić stressed that much has been achieved through the engagement of the Serbian community, including in the political sphere, and that their activities in the United States in recent times support this. President Milorad Dodik was presented with an award for the courage required for leadership and commitment to national sovereignty and democratic principles by Judson University in the US city of Elgin.