President Putin wishes Republika Srpska president victory at upcoming elections

Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Sunday with President of Republika Srpska (an entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina) Milorad Dodik and wished him and his supporters a win at the upcoming elections on October 7.

"I know you will have elections on October 7. I would like to wish you and your supporters every success," Putin said, adding he hoped the elections would be held at a high organizational level and in strict compliance with national laws.

In response, Dodik noted that the Russian leader would celebrate his birthday on that day and also extender his best wishes. He unclasped a lapel pin featuring the flag of Republika Srpska from his jacket and handed it over to Putin, noting that it was actually "an inverted Russian flag".

The two presidents also discussed issues of bilateral cooperation in various spheres, including possible use of natural gas at oil refineries in Republika Srpska.

Putin also welcomed dynamic development of humanitarian contacts. According to Dodik, the foundation stone of a Russian-Serbian humanitarian center was consecrated two weeks ago. He expressed the hope the construction of the center will be over in 2019.

Dodik thanked Putin for the "principles position on the situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina" and for assistance to Republika Srpska.