Zeman calls for swift assistance to Afghans who helped Czech Army

President Miloš Zeman has recommended that the government provide assistance to Afghans who worked with the Czech Army and have remained in their country following the pullout of international troops. Mr. Zeman’s comments were shared by the Czech minister of defence, Lubomír Metnar, after the two met on Thursday. The president said any delay could lead to the deaths of such Afghans, who face the serious threat of reprisals from the Taliban.The government is due to discuss the matter on Friday and Mr. Metnar has said that granting asylum to Afghan assistants has not been ruled out.