START OF CONSTRUCTION OF NEW HIGWAY SECTION - PROOF OF STRENGTH AND VISION OF REPUBLIKA SRPSKA

BIJELJINA, JUNE 12 /SRNA/ - Acting Director of Republika Srpska Highways Radovan Višković stated that the start of construction of the Bijeljina–Brčko highway section is proof of the strength and vision of Republika Srpska and a step closer to achieving the national goal of linking Banja Luka and Belgrade through the territory of Republika Srpska.

"This is a historic day for Republika Srpska. This is how history is written, the modern history of Republika Srpska. This is yet another proof of the strength, power, and vision of the people who have been leading Republika Srpska for more than 20 years," Višković said in his address at the ceremony in Velika Obarska near Bijeljina. Višković stated that the strategic national goal is to connect Banja Luka and Belgrade through Republika Srpska, a goal that is being realized day by day. "Our strategic and friendly partner in this project is the company ‘Kovik’ from the China Railway Group, which is at the very top of global infrastructure rankings. I expect the contractor to demonstrate strength and capacity and justify its top position, and to complete this highway as soon as possible, not to wait three years or 1,095 days as stated in the contract, but to finish it significantly earlier," Višković said. He said the highway includes 15 structures - four bridges, nine overpasses, one underpass, and one interchange. "We have ensured all access roads are in place - no one will be denied access to their property; on the contrary, they will have better connectivity," Višković said, asking for understanding and patience during the construction works. He reminded that the investment is worth BAM 274 million, and is financed through a loan from the Exim Bank, which supports all projects in Republika Srpska. He also called on the authorities of Brčko District to, if possible, accelerate their procedures and take steps to ensure that the highway through the district is built within a reasonable timeframe.