Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a productive call today with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský, focusing on key global issues, including Syria, Ukraine, Taiwan, and NATO defense.
Continued U.S.-Czech Cooperation in Syria
The call began with discussions on the ongoing situation in Syria, where Czechia has served as the protecting power for U.S. interests since 2012. Secretary Blinken thanked Minister Lipavský and the Czech government for their steadfast commitment to safeguarding U.S. diplomatic and consular interests in Syria. The Secretary reiterated the U.S.’s continued support for this important arrangement, even in light of shifting dynamics in the region, particularly following the decline of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Czechia’s support for U.S. citizens in Syria was also acknowledged, with the U.S. expressing deep appreciation for Czechia’s willingness to assist in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. Blinken emphasized that this collaboration is a reflection of the two nations’ strong commitment to global stability and humanitarian efforts.
Strengthening U.S.-Czech Partnership on Ukraine
The conversation moved to Ukraine, where Secretary Blinken expressed appreciation for Czechia’s ongoing support in the face of Russia’s unprovoked invasion. Czechia has been a critical partner in providing military, political, and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Blinken commended the Czech government for its leadership in contributing to the international effort to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and its resilience against Russian aggression. He also underscored the importance of continued coordination between the U.S. and Czechia to ensure sustained assistance to Ukraine in the long term.
Addressing Global Strategic Challenges: Taiwan and the PRC
The two leaders also discussed the evolving strategic challenges posed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), with a particular focus on Taiwan. Secretary Blinken reiterated the U.S. commitment to Taiwan’s defense and the importance of working closely with allies like Czechia to address the growing challenges posed by Beijing’s aggressive policies. The Secretary noted that Czechia’s support for a free and open Indo-Pacific region is essential to maintaining the rules-based international order and ensuring global peace and stability.
Enhancing NATO and Defense Cooperation
Secretary Blinken and Minister Lipavský also touched on the critical issue of NATO defense and collective security. With the growing security concerns across Europe, especially in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the two leaders discussed increasing defense spending and strengthening NATO’s collective defense capabilities. Blinken welcomed Czechia’s decision to procure U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, the largest military procurement in Czechia’s history, which will significantly enhance the country’s defense capabilities and contribute to NATO’s deterrence efforts.
A Partnership Based on Shared Values
Throughout the call, Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Lipavský highlighted the deeply-shared values between the United States and Czechia, including the commitment to democracy, human rights, and rule of law. Their partnership, rooted in mutual respect and strategic interests, continues to play a pivotal role in addressing pressing global challenges.
As both countries continue to face evolving geopolitical challenges, today’s discussion reaffirmed the enduring strength of the U.S.-Czech relationship, built on collaboration in the areas of defense, security, and humanitarian efforts.