The declaration of German Minister Anna Lirmann as persona non grata on the territory of Republika Srpska was neither an impulsive gesture nor a provocation, but a strong and symbolic political message: Srpska no longer accepts humiliation masquerading as diplomacy. This was stated by the Minister of the Interior of Republika Srpska, Siniša Karan, during an official statement.

• Lirmann’s arrival in Banja Luka was not aimed at dialogue or cooperation, but was a political move calculated to convey the message that Germany ‘has nothing against Republika Srpska’, although it wanted to deal exclusively with Milorad Dodik. And that was the mistake,’ Karan said.

According to the minister, Milorad Dodik is not just any politician, but the president of Republika Srpska, and any attack on him is a direct attack on the institution itself, the will of the people and the constitutional order of the entity.

• It is not a question of banning visits, but of banning humiliation. Srpska reacted with firmness and dignity,’ Karan reiterated.

He criticised the approach of Germany, which allegedly carried out a diplomatic offensive through sanctions, resolutions and support for a High Representative not legitimised by international law, such as Christian Schmidt, who continues to impose laws and amend constitutions with the silent support of Berlin.

• And then they send us a minister to talk about dialogue? Not with Srpska, but with those who would like to present it as weak and subordinate. In Banja Luka, this no longer passes,’ said Karan.

The minister expressed satisfaction with the consistency and courage shown by the institutions of Republika Srpska in defending their dignity and harshly criticised the opposition, accusing it of siding with those who want to weaken Srpska.

• This is no longer opposition: it is political complicity. While they seek approval in hotels and embassies, we defend our dignity. This is not just a political message, but an act of self-love,’ Karan concluded.

Finally, he said that in the current struggle between the will of the people and foreign centres of power, Republika Srpska has taken a clear and decisive stance. A choice that, according to him, will be remembered.