The President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Srpska, Dr. Nenad Stevandić, met today in Banja Luka with Ed Miles, the Head of the Political Section of the British Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, to discuss the current political situation in the Republic of Srpska and BiH.
President Stevandić conducted the discussion in line with the agreed platform of the Republic of Srpska leadership, emphasizing that one must talk with the Republic of Srpska rather than about it. He expressed satisfaction that, within international diplomatic circles, the Republic of Srpska is increasingly being viewed not as the culprit for crises, but as a party affirming its rights under the Dayton Agreement through democratic principles, as well as its right to defend its institutions, property, and decision-making processes.
He pointed out that while the Republic of Srpska accepts differing opinions and interests, it will not waive its right to be an equal subject in decision-making. He resolutely rejected any possibility of the Republic of Srpska being treated as an object about which others make decisions. Furthermore, he reiterated the stance on: the necessity of closing the OHR (Office of the High Representative), the cessation of foreign interventionism, and the end of taking sides within Bosnia and Herzegovina, which he stated only serves to deepen the crisis and divisions.
President Stevandić emphasized that the Republic of Srpska views the preservation of peace and stability as a top priority, alongside the protection of its constitutional and Dayton-guaranteed rights.
The meeting was also attended by Matthew Jeffries, the Desk Officer for BiH at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's Western Balkans Department.
