The Czech Republic and Slovakia have been enjoying close relations as reflected in their cooperation in various areas, according to Slovak President Zuzana Caputova. She made this statement after meeting her Czech counterpart, Milos Zeman, in Strbske Pleso, East Slovakia. During the meeting, Zeman expressed his hope that the good relationship between the two countries will continue under his successor, Petr Pavel. Zeman, who is outgoing, emphasized that although he did not support Pavel in the recent presidential contest, he wished him to be successful in the interests of the Czech Republic. Caputova also expressed her support for Pavel and dismissed criticism of her support, highlighting Zeman’s attitude towards the Slovak presidential election.

Both presidents expressed their appreciation for the high level of relations between the two countries and acknowledged that the relationship between the two nations is free from problems and excellent. Caputova pointed out various areas of cooperation such as the economy, culture, and human relations, and expressed her gratitude that this is reflected in situations where help is needed. For example, the Czech command of a multinational combat unit in Slovakia and the Czech Republic’s help in Slovak air policing. Zeman and Caputova also spoke about regional cooperation, but Caputova emphasized that there was no unity on the topics of rule of law and aid to Ukraine in the Visegrad Four (V4) Group, which includes the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Poland. Zeman said he had proposed that Slovenia should join the V4, but Hungary did not show interest in the idea.

In conclusion, the meeting between the two presidents reflected the close relationship between the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and both expressed their hope that the good relationship would continue. Despite their differences in views, they emphasized the importance of cooperation in various areas, including regional cooperation, and the need to help one another in times of need.

Article by Prague Forum