JOINT GOVERNMENT SESSION PROPOSED TO MARK 20 YEARS OF COOPERATION BETWEEN SRPSKA AND ST. PETERSBURG

ST. PETERSBURG, JUNE 4 /SRNA/ – President Milorad Dodik today presented St. Petersburg Governor Aleksandr Beglov with the Order of the Flag of Republika Srpska with a Golden Wreath and proposed holding a joint session of the governments of Republika Srpska and St. Petersburg.

At the meeting, Dodik reaffirmed the high level of cooperation and mutual support between Republika Srpska and the Russian Federation.

"We will continue our work and next year mark 20 years of our successful cooperation. The anniversary will be commemorated through a series of events," Dodik said, expressing gratitude for the invitation to the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and for visits by delegations from St. Petersburg to Republika Srpska.

"We are a small community, but we strive to welcome our friends in the best possible way," Dodik said.

He proposed that a joint session of the governments of Republika Srpska and St. Petersburg be held next year.

Beglov said that the friendship between Russia and Republika Srpska is based on faith and trust and will continue, while expressing support for the proposal to hold a joint government session.

He conveyed a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin that Russia is always ready to help Republika Srpska.

"St. Petersburg will always be there for you. We would also like to thank you for your hospitality," Beglov said, expressing readiness to open a St. Petersburg representative office in Banja Luka.

Beglov said he welcomed the continuation of educational cooperation through student exchange programs.

He also pointed to a number of joint projects and activities that will be implemented through cooperation between Republika Srpska and St. Petersburg.

"I would also like to thank Republika Srpska for the strong support it provides to Russia," Beglov said, expressing special gratitude for the decoration he received today.