Schmidt: I am not Lajčak and I do not withdraw decisions, resolve requests in the BiH Parliament

(Patria) - High Representative Christian Schmidt visited the Potočari Memorial Center today, where he spoke with director Emir Suljagić and then laid flowers.

/qpost/395196

Schmidt in Potočari despite Dodik's threats and bans

(Patria) - High Representative Christian Schmidt visited the Srebrenica-Potočari Memorial Center today and toured the genocide victims' cemetery. He did so despite threats from Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik that he would be deported if he entered the territory

In an interview with Nova BH television, Schmidt commented on the announcements by Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik that if he appears in the territory of Republika Srpska, he will be arrested and deported from that entity.

- I don't know what that gentleman said, but it is my duty to work for BiH as a whole and my mandate is important and I am working to fulfill it to the end.

And I must say that I am happy to have support in the Republika Srpska entity as well. I will not mention names, so as not to cause discomfort to those individuals, but I want to say that we are moving forward with respect for the rule of law.

And I know that in Banja Luka and elsewhere in Republika Srpska, there are many who support it - said Schmidt.

He also touched upon the requests of the authorities from Republika Srpska to withdraw his decisions, which in the smaller BiH entity have been characterized as one of the conditions for calming tensions in BiH.

The President of the National Assembly of Republika Srpska, Nenad Stevandić, recently stated that the crisis could escalate if Schmidt does not withdraw his decisions, as the former High Representative Miroslav Lajčak did.

- I heard that some are referring to a former High Representative. Not only was that person wrong when they spoke about Miroslav Lajčak, but I am not Miroslav Lajčak either, although he is my friend.

No law applies only to one individual, but to all people. If there are requests for amendments to the law, I call on the BiH Parliament to do so - added Schmidt.

Finally, he briefly commented on Dodik's departure first to Belgrade, and then to Israel, despite the fact that a central arrest warrant has been issued for him.

- Anyone who leaves must return. Let's wait and see - said Schmidt.