Page "Republika Srpska" Paragraph 13

The document sets out steps taken by Serbia and Republika Srpska officials to increase economic and political ties.

It is similar to a previous one signed in 2001 between the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and the Republika Srpska, which had envisaged close cooperation in economy, defense, education and dual citizenship for the residents, said a Serbian government statement.

The agreement gives Republika Srpska, the same status with Serbia as the state of Bosnia-Herzegovina as a whole.

" This agreement will stabilize the relations between countries in the region and it will promote economic, political and cultural relations between Serbia and Republika Srpska ," Čavić told reporters after the signing ceremony.

Koštunica added " We have long waited for this day ," and insisting that the agreement would not be " a dead letter on paper ," but would " live and be useful to the citizens of Serbia and Republika Srpska.