Czech officials attend Chinese Embassy reception amid policy shift

A recent diplomatic reception at the Chinese Embassy in the Czech Republic marked a shift in bilateral relations. The event featured the introduction of a new Chinese ambassador, following previous tensions regarding Czech President Petr Pavel’s meeting with the Dalai Lama.

High-ranking Czech officials attended the event, including Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, Defense Minister Zůna, and Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Okamura. This level of attendance is noted as a significant change from the previous administration under Petr Fiala, which was represented only by deputy ministers.

During the reception, Andrej Babiš outlined a pragmatic foreign policy aimed at balancing trade exchange between China and the Czech Republic. He indicated plans for a state visit to China, likely in April of next year, accompanied by a large delegation of Czech industrialists and entrepreneurs. Additionally, the government intends to work toward restoring more direct airline connections between the two nations.