FM Macinka: Czech–Israeli friendship to continue under new government

The Czech Republic’s long-standing friendship with Israel will continue and strengthen under the current government, Foreign Minister Petr Macinka (Motorists’ Party) said after meeting his Israeli counterpart Gideon Sa’ar in Prague. Macinka also renewed the mandate of the ministry’s envoy for Holocaust affairs, interfaith dialogue and freedom of religion, Robert Řehák, whose scope will now also include combating antisemitism.

Macinka recalled that Sa’ar was the first foreign minister he spoke to by phone after taking office in December, describing it as a sign of continuity. Tuesday’s talks focused on developments in the Czech Republic and the Middle East, including Iran. “We share many common views and have much to build on,” he said.

Sa’ar described the Czech Republic as one of Israel’s closest friends and allies, particularly since the Hamas attack of October 7,  2023. He said bilateral relations could reach a new level under the new Czech government, welcomed the coalition programme’s commitment to continuity in ties with Israel, and invited Czech politicians to visit Jerusalem.