Italian President Visits Czech Republic; Pavel: Two Countries Cooperate Closely, Jointly Support Ukraine

Italian President Sergio Mattarella arrived in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, today for a two-day visit, during which he held talks with Czech President Petr Pavel and met with the Speakers of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. This marks Mattarella's first bilateral official visit to the Czech Republic since taking office in 2015; Pavel had previously visited Italy at the end of November 2023. At the press conference, Pavel stated that the Czech Republic and Italy not only share long-standing and deep historical ties but also common values, holding similar positions on many important issues affecting current global developments. Pavel noted that Italy is the Czech Republic's seventh-largest trading partner, with over 3,000 Italian companies currently operating in the Czech Republic, creating thousands of jobs for Czech citizens and investing in various industries, demonstrating a mutually beneficial economic relationship. At the same time, the Czech Republic continues to increase its investment in Italy, with several significant mergers and acquisitions in recent years showing the success of Czech investments in the Italian market. On energy issues, Pavel pointed out that the two countries continue to deepen cooperation in the energy sector, with the Czech Republic striving to reduce its dependence on Russian oil and natural gas and actively seeking diversified energy sources. In addition, both sides are developing cooperation in technology, for example, Italy played a key role in a high-end laser technology research and development center in Prague; at the same time, exchanges in transportation infrastructure are close, and the Czech Republic hopes to learn from Italy's high-speed rail technology. Regarding international security affairs, Pavel said: "We support strengthening Europe's communication capabilities, defense capabilities, and operational capabilities. We also jointly support Ukraine, because we both understand that Ukraine's security means the security of Italy and the Czech Republic." The two presidents also discussed the future of NATO. Pavel stated: "I do not believe that the United States will withdraw from NATO," emphasizing that NATO is essentially a defensive alliance. Mattarella is the second Italian president, after former President Giorgio Napolitano, to serve two seven-year terms. If he completes his term, he will be one of Italy's longest-serving presidents. The Italian president's powers are mainly ceremonial, but he is also responsible for presiding over cabinet formation negotiations after elections or during political crises, and has the power to dissolve parliament.