Prime minister tells Czechs to value their freedom

Speaking at a ceremony in Prague, Prime Minister Mirek Topolánek reminded Czechs of the value of freedom and democracy, stressing that they should never be taken for granted. Referring to the victory of the political left in the October regional elections, Mr. Topolánek warned against the communists’ return to power. He spoke about the significance of Czech participation in the US missile defense shield, saying that the country’s close allegiance with the Western world strengthened its independence. He said opponents of the radar were putting the country’s future security at risk.