UPON ARRIVAL IN ST. PETERSBURG DODIK HIGHLIGHTS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH RUSSIA

ST. PETERSBURG, JUNE 3 /SRNA/ - SNSD President Milorad Dodik said that during his stay in St. Petersburg, where he will attend the International Economic Forum, he will meet with numerous Russian partners from the fields of politics, economics, culture and education to discuss the continuation of cooperation and review joint activities carried out so far.

"Republika Srpska is continuing cooperation with Russia at the highest level. Our cooperation is at a strategically high level, and this has become very evident over the past month," Dodik told journalists from Republika Srpska upon his arrival in St. Petersburg. Dodik noted that the International Economic Forum, held under the patronage of Russian President Vladimir Putin, showcases achievements and capabilities in the economy and all its sectors. "International friends are also present. As far as I am informed, a significant delegation from Western countries, including the United States, is coming, as well as representatives of European companies whose governments still do not cooperate with Russia," Dodik said. He stated that during their stay in St. Petersburg, the Republika Srpska delegation will once again meet with important partners to review the situation regarding the oil refinery and many other ongoing projects. "It is a fact that sanctions have created numerous business challenges, while the inability to export goods from Republika Srpska has caused us enormous losses. Aware of this, we are trying to develop plans for the future," Dodik said. Dodik added that meetings are also scheduled with partners involved in Republika Srpska's helicopter procurement projects, as well as with representatives from the fields of culture, education and policing. "I am pleased to have the opportunity to meet representatives of companies such as Gazprom, as well as figures from political life, the governor of St. Petersburg, and our friends from Kazan, with whom we will discuss future cooperation," Dodik concluded.