The Prague House welcomed President Petr Pavel

The President of the Republic's work program kicked off with a debate with Czech MEPs on Tuesday, followed by talks with the President of the European Council António Costa, the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola and the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

"In the three main institutions of the Union, we discussed in particular strengthening defense, ensuring long-term competitiveness, and accelerating and simplifying decision-making processes. I also handed over several names of Czech candidates for positions in European structures to the Presidents of the Parliament and the Commission. The quality of the experts we send to various levels of the European Union is increasing, as is their number. This is right, because if we are to protect and defend our interests, it is important to have the right people in the right places. This is working well and I think that these talks are also helping to do so," said President Pavel.

On the second working morning, the Head of State held talks at the Supreme Allied Command Europe in Mons with Commander Christopher Cavoli. The topic was, among other things, the effectiveness of the Czech ammunition initiative, which was appreciated not only by him, but also by the President of the European Commission and the NATO Secretary General, whom Petr Pavel met after returning to Brussels. At NATO headquarters, President Pavel met not only with Mark Rutte, but also with the Chairman of the Military Committee Giuseppe Cave Dragon. Together, among other things, they agreed on the priority of strengthening European defense capabilities and ensuring support for Ukraine.

In addition to bilateral meetings, President Pavel also spoke at the European Policy Centre, where he discussed the future of European defense, met with Czechs working in EU and NATO structures, and opened an exhibition with Secretary General Rutte on the 25th anniversary of NATO Days in Ostrava.