Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with the President of the Czech Republic, His Excellency Mr Petr Pavel, today in Canberra.

This is the first visit by a Czech President to Australia in 29 years.

Australia and the Czech Republic are likeminded partners, our relationship is underpinned by shared values and a mutual understanding of contemporary global challenges.

Prime Minister Albanese and President Pavel reaffirmed their steadfast support for Ukraine against Russian aggression, and reiterated this support would continue from both countries for as long as it takes.

The Prime Minister welcomed the Czech Republic’s increased engagement with the Indo-Pacific, as well as President Pavel’s continued advocacy for European engagement in our region.

Strengthening ties between partners like Australia and the Czech Republic allows us to respond to the shared security challenges of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions.

This was the first meeting between Prime Minister Albanese and President Pavel since he assumed office in March 2023.

Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

“I am pleased to welcome President Pavel to Australia for this historic visit, the first by a Czech President in 29 years.

“Australia is fortunate to be home to a large and thriving Australian-Czech community.

“The relationship between Australia and the Czech Republic is underpinned by strong people-to-people ties and continues to grow to meet shared opportunities and global challenges.”