President cancels foreign policy consultations at Prague Castle due to time pressure

President Petr Pavel has cancelled Monday’s planned foreign policy consultations with the country’s top constitutional officials at Prague Castle. His office made the move when it emerged that some participants were unable to keep the scheduled time, despite the meeting being postponed by one hour. Prague Castle said in a press release that an alternative term would be sought.

The delay was caused by an extended cabinet meeting during which the cabinet approved the draft of the 2026 state budget. Prime Minister Andrej Babiš (ANO) apologised to President Pavel for failing to meet the agreed time during a briefing after the government session. According to Babiš, the cabinet on Monday held its most demanding session since taking office in mid-December.