Czech ministry tells EU conflict-of-interest safeguards are adequate

The Czech system for preventing conflicts of interest is well set up, the Ministry for Regional Development has told the European Commission. The response came after Brussels asked how Czechia prevents a potential conflict of interest involving Prime Minister Andrej Babiš.

The commission also sought assurances that the Agrofert holding would not receive EU funds until the situation is fully clarified. Babiš transferred all shares in the company to a private trust earlier this year to address the issue.

The European Commission sent its letter in February and asked for a response within one month. The Czech ministry said it had answered all the commission’s questions.