Dodik: Now is not the time for any political speeches, let us be united

(Patria) - A meeting was held in Bijeljina between BiH Presidency member Milorad Dodik and Bijeljina Mayor Mićo Mićić.

"We have 1,139 people under surveillance, 8 people are in isolation, and three citizens have tested positive for the coronavirus. There will probably be more. We have so far taken all necessary measures," said the Mayor of Bijeljina, Mićo Mićić.

He pointed out that more than 13,000 masks have been distributed, and 80 beds have been secured.

Dodik praised the Crisis Staff in Bijeljina, emphasizing that the situation is very serious both in Bijeljina and throughout the entire Republika Srpska, and that it is not a time for panic, but for concern, after which he called on all citizens, as well as politicians, to be united in this fight. He thanked those citizens who respect the issued measures, but also noted that there were those who violated them, adding that they are thereby endangering the lives of other people.

"Unfortunately, elderly citizens are vulnerable to this virus, but we should all take care of each other so that we can declare victory over the coronavirus. Quarantines are also being established at the border, and we need to find solutions for pensioners as well, so we are considering that on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 5:00 to 7:00 AM they can go to the bank or pharmacy for prescriptions. It is very necessary to ensure that all pharmacies in Bijeljina are supplied with medicines, as well as shopping centers, and I have convinced myself that everything is under control, and we will help this city even if there is a need for donating respirators. It is necessary for all citizens to respect the measures and make that their priority," Dodik stated.

He again emphasized that there is no room for any panic and that a series of extensive measures have been taken, including assistance to the economy, so he added that he approved 15,000 tons of wheat, 10,000 tons of corn, and 5,000 tons of soybeans for the economy, which is necessary for the production of flour and animal feed.

"In addition, in Brčko we secured the company Bimal for the production of oil and sugar, so there will be no problems with food in BiH; this can only arise if there are difficulties in distribution, so there is no need to buy large stocks of food. We will do our best to improve the economy so that spring sowing can proceed smoothly, in order to ensure sufficient quantities of food. Taught by this experience, we have seen what crises arise, and the most important thing is to enable farmers to do their work, and do not let us, despite the arable land we have in the country, actually come to a food shortage," Dodik said.

He particularly emphasized that in such moments, the most important thing is to avoid the Italian scenario and not to ignore the spread of the coronavirus epidemic.

"Now is not the time for any political speeches, because it is not decent, I do not want to comment on any such statements. It is important that politicians are united and gathered around the sole goal of saving human lives," Dodik concluded.