The Ukrainian president came to Prague primarily to appreciate the efforts of the Czechs in the support they have provided to his country since the beginning of Russian aggression. President Pavel assured his counterpart that this support would continue. He also emphasized that by fighting for its own freedom and sovereignty, Ukraine also defends the interests of all democratic countries, including the Czech Republic.
“It is a great honor for me that my first official foreign visit to Prague Castle as president is from Ukraine. I would like to appreciate not only the courage of the Ukrainian nation in defending itself against Russian aggression but also the personal courage of President Zelensky. Seeking support from partners and allies in the situation of a direct threat to his life from Russia is admirable,” said President Pavel. He added, “It is in the interest of the Czech Republic that Ukraine, as soon as the war is over, starts negotiations on accession to NATO and the EU. It is good for our security, regional stability, and economic prosperity. We will also strive to ensure that the negotiations on joining the EU started by the end of this year.”
“I came to thank the Czech Republic for helping our people who were accepted by your country as refugees. Ukraine’s main goal now is to strengthen cooperation and join NATO. I appreciate that the Czech Republic does not look back to Moscow when making its independent decisions. I would also like to thank all the Ukrainian flags I saw on the way from the airport. It was touching,” said President Zelensky.
In addition to the private meeting between the two heads of state, the two heads of state also participated in a working meeting with their delegations. The program at Prague Castle concluded with a joint dinner hosted by the President in honor of the official visit of the President of Ukraine to the Czech Republic.
The program of the Ukrainian head of state will continue on Friday (7.7.2023) morning.
The plan is to meet with Prime Minister Petr Fiala, President of the Senate Miloš Vystrčil and Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Markéta Pekarová Adamová.
Author: Zuzana Bönish, Photos: Archiv KPR