Events

Participants of the 2nd Academy of Women’s Political Leadership, all former Belarusian political prisoners, met with Věra Jourová (photo, right), former Vice-President of the European Commission and current Vice-Rector of Charles University.

The discussion focused on women’s leadership, obstacles faced by women in national and European politics, the future direction of Europe, and ways to support democracy in authoritarian regimes — including assistance to persecuted Belarusian students.

One of the most powerful moments of the meeting centered on personal testimonies about imprisonment, trauma, and the need for justice, underscoring the human cost of political repression. The participants expressed gratitude to Věra Jourová for her time and engagement.

Kazakh Ambassador Bakyt Dyssenbayev (photo, left) met with Radek Vondráček, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Czech Chamber of Deputies, to discuss the further development of bilateral parliamentary cooperation.

During the meeting, Vondráček confirmed the Czech Republic’s interest in deepening dialogue with the Mazhilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan and announced his intention to chair the newly planned Czech Republic–Kazakhstan Friendship Group.

Both sides underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and reaffirmed their readiness to continue strengthening the political dialogue between the two countries, reflecting a shared commitment to constructive engagement and long-term partnership.

Romanian Ambassador Antoaneta Barta introduced the project “Prague 2 Meets Romanian Expats,” an initiative aimed at showcasing the vibrant, talented, and highly qualified Romanian community living in the Czech capital. The opening meeting brought together members of the expat community and local partners for a productive exchange focused on strengthening visibility, connections, and civic engagement.

The initiative reflects a growing commitment to supporting Romania’s diaspora abroad and fostering closer ties between Romanian residents and their Czech counterparts. Organizers expressed hope that this first successful gathering will be followed by many more opportunities for cooperation and community building.

The Embassy of Spain in the Czech Republic welcomed the informal group of women ambassadors in Prague for a discussion focused on public perceptions of foreigners in Czech society. Guest speakers Monika Kýsela and Paulina Tavery from the Public Opinion Research Centre of the Institute of Sociology shared their latest findings, offering valuable insights into current societal attitudes.

The meeting provided a platform for informed dialogue on integration, diversity, and the role of diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding. The initiative also highlighted the growing collaboration among women leaders within the diplomatic community, reflected in the spirit of #diploženy.

To mark the 99th anniversary of the passing of celebrated Slovenian writer, publicist, and social activist Zofka Kveder, Slovenian Ambassador Aleš Balut laid flowers at her memorial plaque in Prague. The commemoration paid tribute to Kveder’s pioneering literary work and her contributions to women’s rights and social progress in Central Europe.

The gesture underscored Slovenia’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage abroad and honoring influential figures who shaped the region’s intellectual and social landscape.

The Experience Europe Centre in Prague hosted the opening of two exhibitions: “The 2025 Sakharov Prize Laureates for Freedom of Thought” and “Polish Solidarity with Belarusians.” The initiative, organized by the European Parliament Liaison Office, the Polish Embassy in the Czech Republic, and partner organizations, draws attention to the ongoing struggle for human rights and democratic freedoms.

The event also underscored the enduring solidarity of Poland and the European community with the people of Belarus, reaffirming a shared commitment to supporting civil society and fundamental rights across the region.

The Embassy of Türkiye in Prague marked the 87th anniversary of the death of Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. A commemorative ceremony was held at the Embassy, bringing together members of the Turkish community to honor Atatürk’s legacy and enduring influence.

The gathering reflected the deep respect held for the visionary leader whose reforms shaped modern Türkiye. The ceremony also highlighted the continued importance of remembrance in strengthening ties among Turkish citizens living abroad.

Danish Ambassador Søren Kelstrup convened the second meeting of EU Heads of Missions in Prague as part of Denmark’s ongoing EU Presidency. The gathering provided an important platform for diplomatic coordination and strategic dialogue among EU representatives.

Ambassador Kelstrup welcomed Czech Minister of Foreign Affairs Jan Lipavský, who offered insights on key foreign-policy priorities, including the situation in Ukraine, broader European security, transatlantic relations, and developments in the Middle East.
The meeting underscored the continued commitment of EU partners to close cooperation and shared diplomatic engagement under the banner of #EU2025DK and #TeamEurope.

The Embassy of Switzerland in Prague hosted a special visit from the U20 Swiss Rugby National Team, currently in the Czech capital for the European Championship. Ambassador Urs Bucher welcomed the young athletes, praising their energy, teamwork, and exemplary sportsmanship.

The meeting offered an opportunity for an engaging exchange, reflecting the Embassy’s support for youth representation and international sporting cooperation. The team’s visit highlighted the strong spirit and determination of Switzerland’s rising rugby talents as they compete on the European stage.

The Embassy of Ireland in Prague marked the 30th anniversary of its establishment as a resident mission in the Czech Republic. The commemorative event brought together friends and partners of the Embassy to reflect on three decades of deepening bilateral relations.

Guest speakers Fr. Mícheál Mac Craith and former Ambassador Marie Cross (photo) shared their insights on the historical, cultural, and societal connections linking Ireland and the Czech Republic. Their contributions highlighted the enduring friendship between the two countries and the continued potential for cooperation across multiple fields.

French Ambassador Stéphane Crouzat expressed appreciation to the Czech Radioactive Waste Repository Authority (SÚRAO) for the opportunity to visit the Richard underground repository near Litoměřice. The delegation included representatives of ANDRA, France’s national agency for radioactive waste management, highlighting strong Franco–Czech cooperation in this sensitive and highly specialized field.

The visit was shared with diplomatic colleagues from Finland, Hungary, and Switzerland, underscoring the growing European dialogue on responsible radioactive waste handling and long-term storage solutions. The engagement reflects a shared commitment to safety, technological exchange, and transparent management of nuclear by-products.

French Ambassador Stéphane Crouzat highlighted the commitment of the Embassy’s communication manager, Eliška, who is currently taking part in the basic training course for the Czech Army’s Active Reserves in Vyškov. The Ambassador expressed his support during a visit to the training center, underscoring the dedication of Embassy staff to strengthening Czech–French cooperation across both civilian and defense spheres.

The participation of a French Embassy representative in the Czech Active Reserves reflects the broader spirit of partnership between the two countries and emphasizes shared values in security, preparedness, and civic responsibility.

The Embassy of France in Prague highlighted a productive discussion held yesterday on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. The meeting brought together government officials, academics, and civil-society representatives for an in-depth exchange of views under the auspices of President Petr Pavel.

Participants examined current priorities and challenges in promoting women’s roles in peacebuilding and security policy. The Czech Republic this year adopted its third National Action Plan implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1325, marking 25 years since the resolution’s adoption. The event underscored the country’s continued commitment to strengthening gender equality and supporting international efforts within the WPS framework.

British Ambassador Matt Field extended a warm welcome to newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Nicholas Merrick, expressing his enthusiasm for continued close cooperation with Czech partners in the event for his welcoming at the American headquarters, with the presence of Czech president Petr Pavel.

The occasion was also attended by H.E. Pieter Jan Kroon, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Czech Republic, reflecting the strong spirit of transatlantic friendship and diplomatic collaboration.

Ambassador Field highlighted the close partnership among the United Kingdom, the United States, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic, reaffirming their shared commitment to cooperation, dialogue, and common values.

Canadian Deputy Head of Mission Emily McLaughlin convened Prague’s women ambassadors’ group for an engaging discussion on the outcomes of the recent Czech elections.

The meeting provided an opportunity for diplomatic colleagues to exchange perspectives on political developments and their implications for the Czech Republic and beyond. Ms. McLaughlin expressed her appreciation to the Association for International Affairs (AMO) for sharing valuable insights and contributing to an open and thoughtful dialogue.

President Petr Pavel attended a concert by the State Philharmonic Košice, held in honour of key figures of the First Czechoslovak Republic—Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk and Milan Rastislav Štefánik. The event also marked the conclusion of the Month of Czech-Slovak Cultural Reciprocity.

Joined by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini, President Pavel reflected on the shared history of the two nations and the enduring partnership that continues to transcend borders. The evening celebrated the deep cultural and historical connections between the Czech Republic and Slovakia, highlighting their continued friendship and cooperation.