ŽUPLJANIN: SRPSKA'S PARTICIPATION IMPORTANT, MESSAGES OF PEACE AND STABILITY BEING SENT

BANJA LUKA, May 25 /SRNA/ – The security situation in Republika Srpska, BiH, and the broader region cannot be good if the global scene is unstable, which is why the exchange of information and the participation of SNSD leader Milorad Dodik at the upcoming International Security Forum in Moscow is a good opportunity for Republika Srpska to once again convey messages aimed at peace and stability, security expert Slobodan Župljanin told SRNA.

Župljanin stressed that Dodik’s participation in this important gathering is a source of pride for Republika Srpska citizens, but also beneficial for all BiH citizens, since security is an issue of broader significance. "Participation of its representatives in international forums and having the opportunity to speak about important issues such as security is very important for Republika Srpska and the Serb people. Dodik is well acquainted with the security situation and will certainly use the opportunity to present Republika Srpska in the best possible way, while obtaining the most important information from the highest global security circles," Župljanin emphasized. He stated that hearing messages from Republika Srpska is beneficial, particularly those advocating democratic dialogue among politicians in BiH and the elimination of external influence from those who do not have good intents toward BiH. "Today's major world powers - China, Russia, and the United States - understand the situation in BiH and what Republika Srpska seeks to achieve within BiH. For quite some time, Republika Srpska has been recognized for strong and proactive diplomatic activity, and government representatives have done much to raise recognition of Republika Srpska to global stage," Župljanin said. He noted that security is one of the greatest challenges for any nation or state, but that since the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, Republika Srpska institutions have invested major efforts in preserving peace and stability, as well as promoting solutions through internal dialogue. "We have seen examples from the Middle East and Ukraine that it is very easy and quick to move from a state of stability to a state of instability. Security must be watched over 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which is the primary task of state institutions," Župljanin said. He added that, unfortunately, there is an unfavorable situation in the FBiH, where significant radicalization based on Islam has been observed through paramilitary groups, unofficial religious communities, returnees from foreign battlefields, and related factors. "All of this is very difficult to manage and monitor, but unless additional efforts are made by all relevant security and protection factors, problems can always arise," Župljanin stressed. He assessed that the Republika Srpska Ministry of Interior has proven to be the strongest guarantor of security and the largest armed force in Republika Srpska, which through preventive action does everything possible to avoid incidents and conflicts. The first International Security Forum will be held in Moscow from tomorrow through Thursday, May 28, bringing together foreign delegations and key Russian stakeholders; SNSD leader Milorad Dodik is expected to attend, announced the Russian Security Council. The Forum, whose main organiser is Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, will include more than 180 delegations from foreign countries and international organisations.