Dodik sends a message of peace: 31 years ago, the demolition of Arnaudija was an act of madness, today we are here to build peace

(Patria) - At today's opening of the rebuilt Arnaudija Mosque in Banja Luka, Mayor Draško Stanivuković also addressed the gathering.

"Cities and places belong to those whose monuments, places of worship and sanctuaries are there. Today it is clearer than ever that Banja Luka belongs to everyone. I congratulate everyone on this event, that today this beautiful place of worship opens its doors, and I wish it to serve for many centuries for the prayerful use of all believers of the Islamic faith.

The lifelong burden of the peoples living in these areas is to look at each other and forgive what can be forgiven. Living together is not only possible but also beautiful.
The most beautiful things that man has made throughout his history are sanctuaries, places of worship and bridges. The Arnaudija Mosque today is not just a place of worship. It is a place where you will pray to God, but it is also a bridge that had to be rebuilt so that we could connect. I do not believe in a man who destroys sanctuaries and places of worship.

I am glad that today, as an Orthodox Serb on the third day of Easter, I can be here and say that Banja Luka has completed an important task. It has restored all mosques, all churches and all cathedrals," said Stanivuković.

In his address, RS President Milorad Dodik greeted all present guests.

"We are witnessing a very important thing, that what happened 31 years ago was a mistake, it was an act of madness. No demolition or desecration can call into question any place of worship. And today we are witnessing the construction of this beautiful object, the Arnaudija Mosque.

I am grateful to everyone who supported the construction of this mosque, especially the Republic of Turkey. In these areas, only peace can live, and everyone has the right to be different, to belong to another people, but we must build peace. And here we show the ability to build peace. I wish to congratulate Muslim believers on the Day of Mosques and the reconstruction of this beautiful object, the Arnaudija, which is a witness to joy, but 31 years ago it was destroyed in madness.

I wish that believers use it in peace and quiet and that no one disturbs them. Politicians with somewhat heated passions these days send various messages, but I will send a message that we live our lives peacefully. I will advocate for preserving peace and stability and for you to have equal rights guaranteed by law. This is a success, not only the construction of the mosque but also our gathering. May this mosque be blessed, may it serve for prayerful activity, may it serve all people regardless of faith. That is something that belongs to Banja Luka and will remain so," said Dodik.