Babiš considers relations with neighbors to be a pillar of foreign policy. “They are the best in our history today,” he said. In the area of bilateral relations, Babiš also mentioned Germany, the USA, Israel, Great Britain and France as key partners.
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In the case of Germany, he considers the development of transport links to be important; in the case of the USA, he called for the conclusion of a trade agreement between the EU and the United States. It also plans to strengthen the Czech diplomatic mission in Jerusalem.
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We remain a friendly country for Russia
On the contrary, Czech-Russian relations are experiencing a very difficult period, Babiš pointed out. “It simply came to our notice then. We are definitely not interested in deepening the crisis further, but two are needed for dialogue, and I do not see any interest in dialogue from the Russian side, “he said. According to him, the dialogue cannot be discussed until the Czechia is included in the Russian list of “not friendly” countries.
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The Czech Republic is also interested in developing relations with China. “On the basis of mutual respect, reciprocity, convenience and respect for the sovereignty of the other party,” he said. The Prime Minister also supported the enlargement of the EU, which should be one of the priorities of the Czech Presidency next year. “I consider the EU’s inability to agree to start accession talks with Northern Macedonia and Albania to be a huge mistake,” Babis said.
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We don’t make nice gestures
In his introductory speech to the traditional Prague meeting of Czech ambassadors, Babiš also emphasized the importance of economic diplomacy. He urged diplomats to look for areas where economic cooperation could be improved. “The promotion of the economic interests of our companies and human rights policy are not excluded. The defense of human rights is one of the traditional pillars of Czech foreign policy, “he said.
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According to him, the Czechia has shown in recent years that it is not indifferent to violence and repression in the world. “It will remain so for the future. It is necessary to do something really specific in this direction, and not to make it domestic political exhibitions. We will offer concrete help, not pleasing gestures, “the prime minister concluded.
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The Prime Minister is very concerned about the situation in Afghanistan, which has been controlled by the Taliban movement. “With the sudden fall of the government, a catastrophic situation broke out, which, incidentally, threatens to escalate into a massive refugee crisis.
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At the end of his speech, Babiš supported the Czech membership in the EU and NATO. “Never in history have we had the guarantees of security, economic prosperity and protection of human rights that the EU and NATO give us. Thanks to full membership in both organizations, the Czech Republic is a stronger and more respected player in the international field and can also better face global challenges that transcend national borders, ”he said.
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