Israel opens first Chamber of Commerce office in Republika Srpska, Bosnia
New Banja Luka office aims to expand Israeli trade, investment and technology ties • Chikli: ‘We are opening a door’
The Israel Chamber of Commerce opened its first representative office in Republika Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina on Thursday night. The inauguration was attended by Minister Amichai Chikli, outgoing Israeli Ambassador Galit Peleg, Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, and other officials. This move aims to strengthen economic ties between Israel and Republika Srpska, focusing on trade, investment, and technology cooperation.
Dodik expressed a desire to elevate relations to the highest possible level, highlighting the office's role as a permanent point of contact for Israeli and local businesses. The office will facilitate collaboration in various sectors, including culture, education, and technology, creating a new dynamic between the two entities. Israeli technology expertise is expected to benefit the region, while Republika Srpska can provide access to the European Union market for Israeli companies.
The proposal for the chamber's establishment came from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with Dodik crediting him as the primary initiator. Chikli emphasized that the chamber should serve as a practical mechanism for business development rather than just a symbolic gesture. Both Israeli and Republika Srpska business delegations are encouraged to visit each other, with the ultimate goal of identifying projects and signing agreements.
The inauguration was described as a tangible manifestation of the friendship between Israel and Republika Srpska, with the potential to extend Israeli ties beyond Republika Srpska to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Balkans, and the wider region.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
