ĐOKIĆ: REPUBLIKA SRPSKA WAS NOT GRANTED, IT WAS WON THROUGH BLOOD AND SACRIFICE

BANJA LUKA, JUNE 20 /SRNA/ – Duga Njiva serves as a reminder that Republika Srpska was not granted, but won through blood and sacrifice, which is why it must be preserved through strength and unity, Republika Srpska Minister of Energy and Mining Petar Đokić said.

Đokić stated that the Corridor breakthrough in 1992 was a noble military operation, an act of salvation, and the moment when the fate of the Serb people was decided.

He emphasized that Duga Njiva is the place where tribute is paid to all soldiers of the Republika Srpska Army, whose blood is embedded in the foundations of Republika Srpska.

“Their sacrifice is a pledge, their victory is a guiding beacon,” Đokić stressed.

He noted that Duga Njiva symbolizes life, freedom, and the survival of Republika Srpska.

“For the 34th time at Duga Njiva, we are reminded that Republika Srpska was born out of sacrifice, courage, and an unshakable determination to live in freedom,” Đokić cited in a written statement.

He recalled that Operation Corridor of Life was the artery through which Republika Srpska breathed, reconnecting Banja Luka with Serbia, restoring hope, and bringing an end to a humanitarian tragedy.

Đokić said that the memory of the 12 Banja Luka babies who lost their lives due to a lack of oxygen must be preserved, adding that their innocent sacrifice became a pledge that the blockade had to be broken and freedom secured.

“Today, 34 years later, the message from Duga Njiva is clear: Republika Srpska must remain strong, united, and unwavering. Our obligation is to preserve peace, defend freedom, and build Republika Srpska as a home for all its citizens. We owe that to the past, but even more to the future,” Đokić concluded.