Htuann Naung

You have been in the Czech Republic for about a year now. What are some of your impressions?

I arrived in this glorious city, Prague, on 7th August 2023. Since then, I have been enjoying life in this passionate country while learning about its history, culture, lifestyle, legendary traditional cuisine, well-preserved countryside with beautiful national parks, vast fields and gorges, as well as the heritage values of the Czech people. I am also impressed by the preservation of historical monuments, castles, and chateaus in this central European country, and its prestigious production of beer, crystals, and so on. Indeed, I have much respect for the technological advancements and innovative creativity here. Living in Prague is amazing! Its flowing river, famed bridges, and narrow cobbled streets are breathtaking and charming. The views of iconic sights such as Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and elegant Wenceslas Square are an integral part of my daily working life now.

Myanmar is still rather an exotic and little-known country for Czechs. Would you like to give us some basic facts?

My country is famous for its rich history, culture, and lovely smiling people, as well as its natural resources such as oil, natural gas, teak, jade, gems, and other minerals. It is the largest inland area within the Southeast Asia region with 56 million people, neighbouring Bangladesh, India, China, Lao PDR, and Thailand. Myanmar is also known as “the golden land”, radiant with a crown of shimmering gold. It offers an incredible cultural variety, and its diverse beauty ranges from snow-capped Himalayan mountaintops to vast underwater reefs. In 1948, we gained independence from Britain. After that, Peace, Union spirit, and Solidarity have been taking vital roles for the interests of the state and people. Under the 2008 Constitution of Myanmar, the country practices a parliamentary-based multi-party democratic system. Ancient cities and historical sites across the country provide proof of the development of past civilizations and king dynasties. The country is recognised for having many colourful and exciting festivals throughout the year.

Myanmar is also a member of the ASEAN group. What activities does this organisation engage in?

Of course, Myanmar is one of the members of ASEAN, sharing our belief in creating a peaceful and prosperous place together for our people. Myanmar has been actively participating and contributing to ASEAN, in our efforts to reach our common goals successfully and build one fine community to closely collaborate with other regional partners and multilateral institutions, including the European Union. Here, we have the ASEAN-Prague Committee of the six embassies of ASEAN member countries, in order to promote the image of ASEAN, share common views between ASEAN and EU, and enhance culture, food, and public diplomacy with the government of the Czech Republic. Last year, our committee conducted several events such as ASEAN Day, the ASEAN+3 Film Festival, a donation to the Czech Food Bank Federation, several engagements with both central and local Czech governments, a series of seminars and roundtable discussions in universities, and culture and food promotion and awareness activities across the country.

Does your personal lifestyle fit your diplomatic role well?

I can definitely say that there is an excellent match between my career and my dream lifestyle. A few years after my graduation, I made the best choice ever and decided to join the Foreign Service – after realising what my assumptions and perceptions were. Being a diplomat makes me motivated to put all my energy into the daily work, and take joy in performing diplomacy. There are different approaches to a diplomat’s life, but I am sure that the way I execute my duties is in line with my motivation and dreams.

What is the best adventure your diplomatic career has brought you?

A diplomat’s life itself has been the greatest adventure of my life. I have some great memories of taking part in peace negotiations, conference diplomacy, and multilateral engagements, as well as diplomacy in hard times.

I believe that learning from every single experience makes every little piece unforgettable for all diplomats.

“Both countries have great opportunities to cooperate.”

How do you spend your free time?

Exploring my nearest surroundings is one of my favourite activities to do in my spare time. It always allows me to learn something new about the host country, and to travel in order to observe the nature, history, and beautiful hearts of the local people. Reading also helps me think outside the box and use my imagination. Keeping myself fit and active by attending the gym is also an option.

Do you promote your country as a holiday destination?

Concerning tourism, Myanmar is surely a destination country for world travellers. There are so many charming places to be explored. I would like to extend my invitation to the people of Czechia to visit Myanmar. Enjoying every experience in my country in the most authentic way will be a lifetime memory for everybody. Myanmar – be enchanted! We offer a really unique Asian culture that differs from many other destinations, with towering mountains and untouched islands, and scattered with sparkling pagodas, British colonial architectural heritage sites, and much more to delve into.