President William Lai (賴清德) today presented the Order of Propitious Clouds with Special Grand Cordon to Czech Senate President Milos Vystrcil in recognition of his longstanding support for Taiwan, efforts to advance Taiwan-Czech relations and commitment to defending democracy worldwide.
Vystrcil drew international attention while visiting Taiwan for the first time in August 2020 when he said “I am Taiwanese” in Mandarin during a speech at the Legislative Yuan.
The Czech Senate leader yesterday arrived in Taiwan for a second visit aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation in areas such as politics, business, education and culture.
Photo courtesy of the Presidential Office
Speaking at a ceremony this morning, Lai welcomed Vystrcil on his return to Taiwan and thanked him for supporting the nation through concrete actions.
While Taiwan and the Czech Republic are geographically distant, they are united by a shared belief in democracy, freedom and human rights, he said.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Vystrcil pressed ahead with his visit to Taiwan despite opposition from Beijing, Lai said.
His declaration that “I am Taiwanese” deeply moved Taiwanese and enabled the world to witness the courage of democracy, the strength of unity and the Czech people’s longstanding tradition of defending freedom, Lai said.
Presenting the medal on behalf of Taiwan, Lai said the honor reflects Vystrcil’s exceptional courage and symbolizes the Taiwanese people’s highest respect and gratitude, while also serving as a testament to the friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic.
China Airlines launched direct flights between Taipei and Prague in 2023, while Starlux Airlines is scheduled to begin direct service on the route in August, further strengthening people-to-people and business exchanges, Lai said.
In the semiconductor sector, the two countries have jointly established a research and development center and expanded talent cultivation efforts, he said.
Czech ambitions to become a EU artificial intelligence "super factory" have attracted active participation from Taiwanese companies, he added.
Both countries experienced long periods of authoritarian rule and therefore understand the value of freedom, Lai said.
At a time of uncertainty, Taiwan should send a clear message to the international community that Taiwan and the Czech Republic would continue to march forward and stand on the side of freedom and democracy to contribute to global peace, stability and prosperity, he said.
Vystrcil said receiving the Order of Propitious Clouds with Special Grand Cordon was a tremendous honor that should be regarded not only as a personal distinction, but also as recognition of the Czech Senate.
In 2020 and this year, the Czech Senate voted by overwhelming majorities resolutions supporting his visits to Taiwan as Senate speaker, he said, adding that such decisions require considerable political courage from senators.
Vystrcil also paid tribute to former Czech Senate speaker Jaroslav Kubera, who had planned a visit to Taiwan before his death in 2020.
Commenting on Lai's May 20 address marking his second anniversary in office, Vystrcil said he found many similarities between the two countries.
The rule of law and fundamental freedoms seem to be taking a backseat as unchecked power continues to expand globally, he said.
Democratic nations have a responsibility to enhance their resilience against this trend and must cooperate to defend freedom and democracy, he said.
Receiving such a high honor brings responsibility and commitment, Vystrcil added.
Additional reporting by CNA
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