Saturday, 15 March 2025
Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala reaffirmed the close alliance between the Czech Republic and Poland, emphasizing their similar positions on numerous international and regional issues. Following a joint meeting of both governments in Prague, Fiala described the relationship as “close and friendly” with shared interests in EU matters, global concerns, and cross-border cooperation.
One of the key agreements reached during the meeting was the accelerated completion of a contract for cross-border cooperation between emergency services. Both countries also plan to establish more direct communication protocols to manage natural disasters more effectively, Fiala told reporters. The meeting, attended by 26 ministers from both sides, marked the largest intergovernmental consultation between the two nations to date.
“Our countries are real allies, not just in terms of EU policies, but also in the global environment,” Fiala said.
Cooperation on Flood Response and Natural Disasters
The recent floods that devastated parts of both the Czech Republic and Poland were a major topic of discussion. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk described the floods as a true test of the two countries’ friendship, saying, “We worked seriously and with trust, which helped mitigate the consequences.” Both governments committed to evaluating their flood response and improving cross-border cooperation to better handle future natural disasters.
Fiala highlighted the need for more streamlined communication between the two countries during crises and underscored plans to enhance the Czech Republic’s flood defenses, including the construction of a dam in Nové Heřminovy, expected to begin by 2027. “The dam will significantly protect areas like Krnov and Opava from flooding,” Fiala said, adding that efforts are underway to repair flood-damaged wastewater treatment plants.
Tusk praised the cooperation between Czech and Polish emergency services, including the involvement of Czech helicopters in rescue operations in Poland. “Critical situations are the best test to check whether friendship is real or just a diplomatic slogan,” Tusk said.
Defense and Support for Ukraine
Defense and military cooperation were also central to the talks. Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová and her Polish counterpart Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz discussed the ongoing support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Both countries are united in their efforts to provide military aid, training, and logistical support to Ukraine, Černochová said.
Poland’s significant role in supporting Ukraine was acknowledged, with Černochová praising the collaboration in logistics, military training, and equipment supplies. The ministers also discussed deepening defense-industrial ties, including potential partnerships in military vehicle production, air force modernization, and ammunition manufacturing.
The meeting concluded with both governments expressing a commitment to continue strengthening their alliance, particularly in areas of defense, energy, and disaster response, ensuring that the Czech Republic and Poland remain united on critical regional and international issues.
Source: CTK
