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The Czech Chamber of Deputies has resumed the final round of deliberations on the government’s pension reform, facing criticism from opposition MPs. Forty of them registered to speak, with right wing SPD leader Radim Fiala using his priority right to begin. Vice-Chair Olga Richterová (Pirates Party) and Christian Democratic Leader leader Aleš Dufek are also expected to speak, with Dufek possibly extending the afternoon session to allow more debate. The reform proposes a gradual increase in retirement age and adjustments to new pension calculations aimed at stabilizing the pension system’s finances. Voting is anticipated by Friday.

Swiss neutrality may not entirely shield the country from hybrid and cyber threats, Czech President Petr Pavel noted during his visit to Switzerland. In discussions with Swiss leaders, Pavel emphasized the importance of cooperation with EU and NATO partners, pointing to growing Swiss involvement in international consultations and participation in NATO Council meetings. Pavel also visited the Spiez Institute, which works on nuclear, biological, and chemical defense, and Armasuisse in Thun, where he observed advancements in robotic systems and defense technology. Pavel praised Switzerland's commitment to deepening its strategic relationship with the Czech Republic.

Czech nominee for EU Commissioner, Jozef Síkela, is set for a hearing Wednesday afternoon with the European Parliament's Development Committee (DEVE). He is expected to primarily address questions regarding his role in overseeing international partnerships. Síkela, a former Czech Minister of Industry and Trade, has prepared intensively, meeting with committee members and heads of associated committees who will also be present. He is likely to address concerns about the EU's Global Gateway strategy, which aims to compete with China’s Belt and Road Initiative through investments in infrastructure in emerging regions. DEVE committee members have previously criticized the strategy’s transparency and implementation.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský voiced strong support for North Macedonia’s efforts to advance its EU accession talks, following his meeting in Prague with North Macedonian Foreign Minister Timco Mucunski. Lipavský emphasized that the journey to EU membership will require considerable effort from North Macedonia. Mucunski expressed optimism, suggesting that with mutual commitment, EU accession by 2030 could be achievable.

Negotiations for EU membership with North Macedonia and neighboring Albania began in 2022, with the initial "screening" phase concluding at the end of 2023. This phase, conducted with the European Commission, involves reviewing national laws to identify areas requiring alignment with EU standards. Lipavský reaffirmed his full support for North Macedonia’s progress in these negotiations.