VIDOVIĆ: WAGES, PENSIONS AND SOCIAL BENEFITS TO BE INCREASED

BANJA LUKA, NOVEMBER 4 /SRNA/ – Republika Srpska Finance Minister Zora Vidović said that wages, pensions and social benefits in Republika Srpska would be increased in the coming period.

"There will also be assistance for young people to help them start their own businesses. We expect the average monthly salary to reach EUR 1,000 next year," Vidović told RTRS.

She assessed that Republika Srpska would introduce economic reforms in two directins in the coming period: support for scientific and technological development and the manufacturing industry.

Speaking about the economy, Vidović emphasized that Republika Srpska had the most favourable business environment in the entire region.

"We will not reduce taxes and social security contributions, but we will redefine incentives and subsidies," Vidović said.

According to her, Republika Srpska has a low level of public debt, which is expected to stand at 36 per cent at the end of next year.

"Many projects are under way in Republika Srpska. The largest is the Dabar Hydropower Plant, which is expected to be connected to the grid in 2028. We are also building motorways and a gas pipeline, which is budget-financed," Vidović said.

Speaking about the status of RTRS, Vidović said that it would be regulated by a new law.

"We have been working intensively over the past few days on the RTRS issues, which is a very important matter. Its bank accounts will be unblocked and employees will receive their salaries, while the funding system will be changed. I believe that, with the formation of the new convocation of the Republika Srpska National Assembly, we will be able to amend and adopt a new law by the end of the year," Vidović said.

Regarding the situation involving Alta Bank in Serbia, Vidović pointed out that Republika Srpska would not suffer any adverse consequences.