DODIK'S POLICIES LAID FOUNDATION FOR SRPSKA-RUSSIA COOPERATION

ST. PETERSBURG, JUNE 4 /SRNA/ – Foreign Trade and Economic Relations Minister in the Council of Ministers Staša Košarac said today at a meeting of the co-chairs of the Commission for Trade and Economic Cooperation between BiH and the Russian Federation that everything achieved in establishing and sustaining cooperation had been made possible thanks to the policies of SNSD President Milorad Dodik.

At the meeting with co-chair Anton Shalaev, which was also attended by Dodik, Košarac stressed that all efforts over the years had been aimed at creating the conditions necessary for establishing the bilateral commission.

"Everything we have done over these years was guided by Milorad Dodik's policy. He insisted that we do everything possible to build good relations and ensure mutual benefits from that cooperation," Košarac said.

He emphasized that BiH is generally pursuing an anti-Russian policy and that, in that regard, understanding cannot be expected from Sarajevo.

Shalaev said that the friendship between Russia and Republika Srpska is based on values that are jointly cherished and upheld.

He thanked Dodik, who attended the commemoration of the 81st anniversary of Victory over Fascism on May 9 in Moscow together with Republika Srpska President Siniša Karan.

"I highly appreciate the position of the Republika Srpska leadership, which advocates cooperation with Russia. We oppose those who seek to create a false image," Shalaev said.

He noted that some political actors in Sarajevo are trying to create the false impression that BiH has imposed sanctions on Russia.

"We are ready for open dialogue with both BiH and its entities, as well as with anyone interested in sincere, open and mutually beneficial cooperation," Shalaev said.

Shalaev announced that the first session of the commission will be held in July in Banja Luka.

"Our experts will be able to discuss all forms of cooperation," Shalaev said.