The President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Srpska, Dr. Nenad Stevandić, met today in Banja Luka with the Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sara Eti Castellani, to discuss the current political situation and cooperation between the Republic of Srpska and Italy.
During the conversation, the importance of open and constructive dialogue was emphasized. President Stevandić stated that one must speak with the Republic of Srpska, rather than about it without its participation, and underlined that its constitutional and legal position must be respected.
He noted that the actions of the High Representative—specifically the imposition of laws—are unacceptable within the policy of the Republic of Srpska. He further assessed that the High Representative's existence and work represent an anti-civilizational and anti-European act.
Stevandić emphasized that Italy has not positioned itself as a country that takes sides in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Instead, he described Italy as a partner that strives to understand the complex relations and specificities of the internal structure. He added that Italy's economic presence and its understanding of the procedures and culture in BiH allow it to serve as a stabilizing factor in relations and in the process of EU integration.
The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Ambassador of the Republic of Italy to BiH, Riccardo Righelli.
