Petr Pavel at the peace summit? The Czech Republic is finally playing in the first league

However, this turnaround is not only the work of the president, but the entire government. It is refreshing to see this drastic change in how the world’s democracies perceive us. After a long time, we can proudly state that we are a real partner, and not just a difficult ally of European states. The participation of President Petr Pavl at the upcoming peace summit in mid-June in Switzerland can be considered the crowning achievement of the foreign policy of Petr Fiala’s government.

Of course, the personality of President Petr Pavel plays a significant role in this transformation. His clearly articulated positions are also gaining attention abroad. The main difference is that this interest is of a positive nature, which was not always the case in the past. It is enough to look back to the period when Miloš Zeman was at the Castle, whose actions were often conditioned by his own interests. It was similar under Václav Klaus, although I’m only betting a little higher than Miloš Zeman.

It can be said that Czech foreign policy is undergoing a kind of renaissance, which was duly needed. Suddenly we have a president whose stances we can be proud of and who behaves like a true statesman and diplomat. More importantly, he does not lose himself in the illusion of his own perfection.

But in order not to attribute all the merits only to Peter Pavl, I must also mention the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jan Lipavský. He also proved in his own way that the Czech Republic is no longer a country that would automatically succumb to the pressure of stronger players. And this does not only apply in the case of relations with Russia.

I am proud that we are finally playing the role of an equal partner, and not only in Europe. It’s a really refreshing change. Of course, I realize that we are still a small country and do not have as much influence on the international scene as other powers. However, this does not mean that we do not have the right to express our voice. And the invitation of President Petr Pavel to the peace summit is proof that even a small country can have its place on the international stage.

It is proof that the Czech Republic does not play second fiddle, but that it has finally won its place in the first league. We can only hope that we will keep this recognition for as long as possible.