DODIK: SRPSKA IS A FRIEND OF AMERICA AND RESPECTS IT

BANJA LUKA, JUNE 23 /SRNA/ - Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik has stated today in Banja Luka that Republika Srpska is a friend of the United States and respects the country, as the Serb people have historically shared a common fate with the American people.

"We want to introduce Republika Srpska to former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich so that he can learn everything about it and do his best to help position it in relation to the US," Dodik said at a press conference following a meeting with Blagojevich.

He expressed his satisfaction that Blagojevich is visiting Republika Srpska.

"Blagojevich is originally from our region. He will also visit Gacko, where his roots are. Several US administrations have caused problems for the Serb people, and that's why our people want to reposition themselves in the United States," Dodik added.