Statement by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia

D“Comments made by Sefer Halilovic about the destruction of the Republic of Srpska are the graveest threat to peace and stability in the region.

Halilovic is not only a former Muslim wartime commander but he is also an unofficial spokesman for Bakir Izetbegovic. Halilovic is saying what Izetbegovic is thinking. That is why the threats issued by him should be taken seriously, because they show that there are war plans based on an evaluation that the Republic of Srpska could not withstand more than 10-15 days, and that not even Serbia would be able to defend it.

It is clear to everyone that the announced referendum is merely an excuse and that behind it all, is the intent to destroy the Republic of Srpska by war. Had they wanted a compromise, the Constitutional Court could have at least changed one comma in their decision. However, compromise was not important to them, but to have instead an excuse for war intentions and plans, for which Muslims in Bosnia and Herzegovina are obviously getting ready.

Serbia undoubtedly wants peace and will do everything in its power to maintain stability, but will certainly not allow a military attack on and destruction of the Republic of Srpska. Nobody should even dream about that.

Serbia is strong enough to defend itself and will not allow the destruction of the Republic of Srpska, either, if it comes under attack. We expect an urgent reaction from the international community and international representatives in Bosnia and Herzegovina, if they truly care for peace”, said Minister Dacic.