By Muhammad Sohail
In the last week of August, the regular annual meeting of the heads of our diplomatic missions abroad took place in the Czernin Palace. More than a hundred ambassadors, ambassadors, consuls general and consuls discussed the priorities of our foreign policy and current geopolitical challenges. The main topics included the impacts of the Russian war in Ukraine and Europe, transatlantic relations and strengthening European defense capabilities, support for democracy, the situation in the Middle East, and the interconnectedness of diplomacy with the prosperity of our country.
The meeting was opened on Monday, August 25, 2025, by speeches from Prime Minister Petr Fiala and Minister of Foreign Affairs Jan Lipavský. “Europe remains at risk, as Russia’s ambitions do not end in eastern Ukraine. Moscow may be ready for further aggression within a few years. Therefore, it is in our vital interest to support Ukraine and provide it with adequate security guarantees. The most effective guarantee is assistance in building a strong Ukrainian army,” said the Prime Minister in his speech. He further assessed the government’s achievements in the area of energy security, economic development, the successful integration of Ukrainians, and the importance of strengthening relations with partners in our region, today primarily with Germany and Poland.
Minister Lipavský looked back on four years of Czech diplomacy under his leadership. “Czech diplomacy has a voice in the world and our allies count on us. We are at key negotiations, such as those recently taking place in the coalition of those willing to support Ukraine and approach Russia,” said the head of Czech diplomacy. He drew attention to the deteriorating international situation and the related need to pay greater diplomatic attention to issues of defense and security. He emphasized that modern diplomacy is both a matter of values and interests.
This year, other members of the government also made their contributions to the ambassadors – Minister of Transport Martin Kupka, Minister of Industry and Trade Lukáš Vlček, and Minister of Science, Research and Innovation Marek Ženíšek.
During the meeting, in addition to current foreign policy topics, the heads of Czech embassies also addressed issues of economic diplomacy and improving consular services for Czech citizens, including ensuring postal voting in the upcoming parliamentary elections. The heads of embassies were traditionally received by President Petr Pavel and they also met with senators.
