Dodik and Netanyahu affirm strategic partnership

Sharing his insights on X (formerly Twitter), Dodik characterized the discussion as one defined by mutual understanding. "This was a meeting of deep comprehension, understanding our position, the position of Israel and the Jewish people, and their grasp of our very complex situation," Dodik noted.

During the talks, Dodik expressed serious concerns regarding the stability of the Republika Srpska entity, asserting that its position is "gravely threatened through the dismantling of the Dayton Peace Agreement."

Dodik utilized the meeting to advocate for a return to the so called original principles of the 1995 peace accord. "We emphasized the need for assistance in returning to the 'letter of Dayton,' specifically regarding the restoration of our military, finances, courts, and intelligence services as originally granted under the agreement," he stated. He further criticized the current judicial proceedings in Bosnia and Herzegovina, suggesting that recent legal actions against individuals and himself demonstrate a lack of impartiality within the state-level judiciary.

According to the SNSD leader, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s message was unequivocal regarding the relationship between the two sides. "Netanyahu told us that we are great and enduring friends. We find ourselves in a situation where our enemies are also the enemies of Israel," Dodik wrote.

The discussion also touched upon the future of European integration and the economic standing of Republika Srpska. Dodik suggested a potential shift in foreign policy priorities:

• EU Integration: Dodik stated that the current framework within BiH is detrimental to the entity’s interests, suggesting that European integration efforts should be paused until the status of Republika Srpska is resolved.
• International Outreach: He announced plans to seek further support in Budapest and the United States, as well as other global centers where their voice can be heard.
• Economic Indicators: Addressing domestic criticism, Dodik highlighted that the entity maintains a deficit of 0.4% and a debt-to-GDP ratio of 32%, figures he claimed were received with "positive surprise" during his meetings in Israel.

Following this high-level visit, Dodik is expected to continue his diplomatic tour with upcoming meetings in Hungary.