DODIK: WE HAVE RIGHT TO DECIDE ON THE ISSUE OF MIGRANTS

BANJA LUKA, JULY 1 /SRNA/ – The President of Republika Srpska Milorad Dodik stated today that Republika Srpska, as a decision-making factor in BiH, has the right to have a position and to decide on the issue of migrants, which is why this topic is being discussed in the National Assembly of Srpska.

"We do not want this process in our territory," Dodik said in the National Assembly while presenting the draft declaration rejecting the initiative of the Government of the United Kingdom and the EU to establish migrant centers in BiH.

He emphasized that this is not directed against migrants, nor against the policies of other countries' governments, and that Srpska has no pretensions, but has the right to regulate residence within its territory.

"We are entering a new phase that implies a formal arrangement of the conditions for migrants' stay in this area. That is why I am convinced you will support the proposed conclusions," Dodik said.

He pointed out that Republika Srpska also wants to draw the attention of others in BiH to the danger concerning migrants.

"BiH holds the competence over immigration policy. Republika Srpska must have a position on every important issue," Dodik noted.