Daily news summary
President speaks at NATO Days
Czech President Miloš Zeman, speaking at Mošnov in Ostrava on Sunday, the second day of NATO Days and Czech Air Force Days attended by thousands of visitors, reiterated that fewer tanks and more unmanned drones were needed in the fight against terrorism, specifically Islamic State. The president has made the case before, namely at the recent summit in Wales. On Sunday, Mr Zeman also congratulated the Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Army, General Petr Pavel, on his election to be the next chairman of NATO's Military Committee. In his speech, he also touched upon the usefulness of the country's supersonic Gripen fighter jets, which are to begin a mission in helping to protect Iceland's air space.
Prime Minister calls election of Czech general as chairman of NATO's Military Committee a major diplomatic success
The prime minister has called Saturday's election of Czech General Petr Pavel as the next chairman of NATO's Military Committee a "major diplomatic success", for the Czech Republic - one that recognised the Czech Army's contribution within the alliance. The defence ministry reacted similarly, called his election an expression of trust by fellow NATO members towards the Czech Republic. On Saturday, General Pavel was elected to the post at the committee meeting in Vilnius. He will replace the present committee head, Danish General Knud Bartels, next year. General Pavel is the first representative of a NATO east European member country to hold the senior post. The Military Committee chairman is NATO´s highest military authority and chief military adviser to NATO's secretary general.
Amateur racers die on Brno Circuit
Two people - amateur motorcycle racers - died in a race on the Brno (formerly Masaryk) Circuit on Saturday and two others were seriously injured, after they were caught in a collision in the mass start. One of those killed in the accident died instantly; medics tried but were unable to save the life of the other gravely injured rider. Those injured were taken to the emergency ward at the Brno Teaching Hospital. The Brno Circuit was rented for the race, a spokesman told the Czech News Agency.
Man drowns trying to save dog
A 34-year-old man drowned on Saturday in the Ostravice River in Frýdlant after jumping off a weir into the water to try and save his dog caught in a whirlpool. He was himself caught and dragged under. Rescuers called to the scene pulled the man from the water after some 20 minutes and tried to save his life. They were able to only briefly resuscitate his heart.
Kateřinice selected as Village of the Year
Kateřinice, in the region of Zlín, has won the prestigious title of Village of the Year in a popular competition, beating out 12 other finalists, including Ořechov and Nová Hradečná. In all, 306 municipalities took part in the competition this year - the 20th inception. The local mayor thanked all those who took part who helped to secure the win. Kateřinice boasts a population of more than 1,000 inhabitants and rich array of organisations including a local choir and the boy scouts.
Legendary singer Tony Bennett performed in Prague on Saturday
Legendary American singer Tony Bennett performed in Prague on Saturday - just his second appearance in the capital. The last time was 17 years ago. Bennett, who turned 88 in August, has been touring across Europe; his next stop will be in Brussels. On Saturday, the 17 Grammy holder included signature tunes as well as classic jazz standards.
Tennis: Plíšková wins second career title
Twenty-two-year-old women's tennis player Karolína Plíšková has won her second career title, winning in the final of a WTA tournament in Seoul. Plíšková defeated opponent Varvara Lepchenko in three sets by a score of 6:3, 6:7 and 6:2. The player has had an excellent season, reaching four finals this year. Last year, the player secured her first title in Kuala Lumpur.
