UNOFFICIAL

TRANSLATION

Conceptual Basis of the Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic for the 2003 - 2006 period
(Approved by the Government of the Czech Republ c on !"rch #$ %&&# '

() Introduct on %) *"+ + of Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c 2.1. 2.2. 2.$. 2.%. Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic: Aims and Ob ecti!es "he Czech Republic and the Current #nternational Relations Principles of the Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic #nstruments of the Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic

#) -r or t e+ of the Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c

.) T"+/+ of the Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c %.1. %.2. %.$. %.%. "he Czech Republic and the &uropean 'nion Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic in the (ecurity Field )ilateral and Regional Cooperation in the &uro*Atlantic Area "he Czech Republic and the Countries of Asia+ Africa+ Australia and ,atin America %.-. %... "he Czech Republic in #nternational Organisations "he Czech Republic: &/ternal &conomic Relations and Foreign Aid %.0. Presentation of the Czech Republic Abroad+ Relations 1ith Czechs ,i!ing Abroad and 2on*go!ernmental Relations

() Introduct on Concept of Foreign Policy for the 2003 - 2006 Period "he Czech 3o!ernment formulated its main foreign policy tas4s and priorities in its Policy (tatement of - August 2552. "he foreign policy concept for the 255$ * 255. period is based on this Policy (tatement and is to ser!e as a frame1or4 document for a four*year period unless an earlier update becomes necessary as a result of ma or changes. "he presented Concept outlines the Czech Republic6s foreign policy ob ecti!es and the priorities and acti!ities on 1hich it 1ill focus in the said period. Annual Foreign Policy Priorities )ased on the Foreign Policy Concept for the 255$ * 255. Period+ the 7inistry of Foreign Affairs 1ill present Foreign Policy Priorities for each year at the beginning of e!ery calendar year. "his 1or4ing document+ including a brief e!aluation of the preceding year+ 1ill set forth detailed priorities and tas4s for the respecti!e year. %) St"rt n, po nt+ for the Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c %)( Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c0 A m+ "nd Ob1ect ve+

"he primary aim of Czech foreign policy is to promote and protect national interests+ including in the 1ider conte/t a peaceful+ unified+ stable+ safe and prosperous &urope and the international community as a 1hole. "he Czech Republic pursues its foreign policy 1ithin the &uropean integration process and the firm &uro*Atlantic alliance. #t promotes an international en!ironment oriented to1ards the de!elopment of political and economic cooperation on the basis of the oint identification and management of threats and ris4s+ preferably by political and peaceful means.

%)%) The Czech Republ c "nd current ntern"t on"l rel"t on+

Position of the Czech Republic #n international relations+ the Czech Republic see4s to act as a policy of a democratic and politically+ economically and socially stable state in Central &urope+ promoting not only its particular interests but at the same time assuming its share of responsibility for the de!elopment of &urope and the international community as a 1hole. "he Czech Republic builds on all the positi!e achie!ements of the former Czechoslo!a4ia on the international scene. An important aspect in this respect 1as the smooth and peaceful split of the former federation. 8ith the area and population of a medium* sized &uropean country+ and 1ith its open economy+ e/ports and ser!ices accounting for a considerable part of its 39P+ also as a country 1ith limited natural resources+ the Czech Republic is to a large degree dependent on international cooperation. 2A"O membership and the

accession of the Czech Republic to the &' together constitute the accomplishment of the 4ey foreign policy priorities since the establishment of an independent Czech state. "hese features play a decisi!e role in strengthening and consolidating its international position and security. For the Czech Republic+ these ma or organisations constitute ne1 1ays and means of promoting the interests of the country.

Current International n!iron"ent

"he international en!ironment in 1hich the Czech Republic has been pursuing its foreign policy results from the interaction of a number of factors. "hese range from so!ereign states+ groupings of states 1ith differing degrees of integration into international organisations and

institutions+

non*go!ernmental

entities

and

non*go!ernmental

organisations to a large number and !ariety of interest groups lac4ing transparency and ignoring the rules of international relations+ including organised crime groups and terrorist organisations. "he role+ importance and influence of these indi!idual factors is sub ect to change+ often o!er !ery short periods of time. "he end of bipolarity and changes in the security en!ironment ha!e brought 1ith them the acceleration of

globalisation+ the liberalisation of the 1orld economy+ the gro1ing interdependence of states and the ad!ance of science and technology. "hese factors ha!e resulted in the rising importance of multilateral cooperation 1ithin international organisations and integration groupings. #n light of the ne1 threats posed by certain illegal net1or4s+ in particular terrorist organisations+ 1e are 1itnessing a rapid rise in the significance of all international mechanisms aimed at countering such dangerous phenomena.

%)#) -r nc ple+ of the Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c

#e"ocracy and the Rule of $a% "he Czech Republic subscribes to the legacy and !alues of &uropean ci!ilisation. One of its 4ey priorities is the de!elopment of democracy and the rule of la1 based on freedom+ e:uality+ ustice+ democracy+ tolerance of di!ersity and solidarity 1ith the 1ea4+ threatened and defenceless. #t percei!es democracy not only as an internal affair of indi!idual countries but also as the best basis for the successful de!elopment of mutual relations

Principles of $a% and of &utual Ad!antage in International Relations

#n its relations 1ith other countries+ the Czech Republic respects the protection of inalienable and natural human rights+ international la1 and the rule of la1 as the fundamental !alues of foreign policy. #n accordance 1ith the intentions and ob ecti!es of the 'nited 2ations Charter+ the Czech Republic gi!es preference to peaceful methods and means in its relations 1ith foreign countries. #t ad!ocates international relations built on the principle of international la1+ so!ereignty+ political independence and territorial integrity of states+ and 1ill continue to support international cooperation based on the principle of mutual ad!antage.

%).) In+trument+ of the Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c

Fields of Acti!ity of Czech #iplo"acy

#n pursuing its foreign policy ob ecti!es+ the Czech Republic has been de!eloping good bilateral relations not only 1ith its neighbours but also 1ith other countries by means of multilateral cooperation 1ithin

integration ;supranational< groupings and international organisations. "he Czech Republic places emphasis on the security and economic dimensions of international relations and the strict application of en!ironmental standards in compliance 1ith international commitments and the

re:uirements of national legislation. An important part of diplomacy is also the presentation of the country abroad+ relations 1ith Czechs li!ing abroad and a dialogue 1ith non*go!ernmental organisations.

&inistry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic

"he 7inistry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic is responsible for the country6s foreign policy and also plays a coordinating role 1ith regard to

public authorities acti!e in the field of international relations. "he Foreign (er!ice operates on a non*partisan principle and on the basis of the policies of the democratically elected go!ernment. "he efficiency of the Foreign (er!ice 1ill be further enhanced after the entry into effect of the Ci!il (er!ice Act applied 1ith regard to the field that the Foreign (er!ice co!ers. A number of concrete measures 1ill be ta4en as part of the implementation of the pro!isions of the Act in the specific conditions of the 7inistry of Foreign Affairs and its Foreign (er!ice.

#) Fore ,n -ol cy -r or t e+ of the Czech Republ c

Priorities of the Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic

"he 4ey Czech foreign policy priorities in the 255$ * 255. period+ set by the 3o!ernment Policy (tatement of - August 2552+ are in particular to: complete the integration of the Czech Republic into the &uropean 'nion and to establish the country a fully*fledged member of the &'= participate acti!ely in 2A"O= ad!ocate the fight against terrorism= de!elop good*neighbourly relations and enhance regional cooperation= de!elop relations 1ith other countries and international organisations on bilateral and multilateral bases 1ith special attention to the economic dimension of foreign policy= efficiently promote the Czech Republic abroad.

.) T"+/+ of the Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c

.)() The Czech Republ c "nd the 2urope"n Un on

'ignificance of Czech Republic(s &e"bership in the )

Accession to the &uropean 'nion and subse:uently an effecti!e and so!ereign role 1ithin the &' as a member country 1ill significantly change the position of the Czech Republic in &urope. Full*fledged membership in all &' bodies 1ill offer the Czech Republic ne1 opportunities as 1ell as pose demanding tas4s for the 7inistry of Foreign Affairs and the 1hole administrati!e system of the Czech Republic. "he Czech Republic is a1are of these fundamental changes and 1ill aim to share their benefits 1ith its partners in the &uropean 'nion and the 1ider international community.

)efore the accession of the Czech Republic to the &uropean 'nion+ the Czech 7inistry of Foreign Affairs 1ill pay increased attention+ inter alia+ to the referendum on the entry of the Czech Republic into the &uropean 'nion and the process of ratification of the Accession "reaty in the member countries. >ence it 1ill particularly focus on pro!iding the general public in the Czech Republic as 1ell as in the member countries of the &uropean 'nion+ 1ith the ma/imum information on the significance and impact of the integration of the Czech Republic into the &'.

'pon accession to the &uropean 'nion+ the Czech Republic 1ill pursue a policy that 1ill allo1 it to participate+ in accordance 1ith its interests and needs+ in the de!elopment of the &uropean economic and social model+ respecting the principle of democracy and human rights and of the dignity of all nations. "he Czech Republic 1ill be acti!ely in!ol!ed in implementing the ob ecti!es of the ,isbon process+ i.e. ma4ing the 'nion the most dynamic and most competiti!e 4no1ledge ? based economy in the 1orld+

capable of sustainable gro1th 1ith more and better obs and greater social cohesion.

Future of the )

"he Czech Republic 1ill acti!ely contribute to the debate on the future of the &' both in the Con!ention and in the ne/t #ntergo!ernmental Conference and in possible follo1*up forums. As part of this debate it 1ill 1or4 for further deepening and broadening of the economic and political integration of &urope and for the strengthening of its democratic nature 1ith respect for the national and cultural identity of indi!idual states and regions based on the principle of subsidiarity. #n defending its interests and positions in this process+ the Czech Republic 1ill de!elop cooperation 1ith all li4e*minded countries.

Co""on Foreign and 'ecurity Policy of the )

"he Czech Republic 1ill acti!ely participate in the formulation and implementation of the &' Common Foreign and (ecurity Policy and 1ill ta4e part+ to the 1idest possible e/tent+ in the process of shaping the &uropean security and defence policy in both the military and ci!il areas.

cono"ic and &onetary )nion

Already during the pre*accession period the Czech Republic is ta4ing effecti!e steps to1ards meeting the 7aastricht con!ergence criteria so

as to :ualify for successful integration into the &conomic and 7onetary 'nion as soon as possible after accession. .

&igration and *isa Policy

"he Czech Republic identifies 1ith the principles of the migration and !isa policy of the &uropean 'nion and 1ill align 1ith the ac:uis communautaire in this field so that after its entry into the &' it oin the (chengen area as soon as possible. "he Czech Republic 1ill also coordinate its asylum policy 1ith the &uropean 'nion.

.)%) Fore ,n -ol cy of the Czech Republ c n the Secur ty Are"

Intern"t on"l Cooper"t on n the Secur ty Are" 'tarting points for International Cooperation in the 'ecurity Area

Czech foreign policy in the security area 1ill focus on identifying and analysing potential threats of a military and non*military nature and on combating such threats in cooperation 1ith its allies in 2A"O and 1ithin international organisations. "he Czech Republic 1ill encourage

strengthening of the "rans*Atlantic lin4 as the bac4bone of the &uropean security system. #n order to ensure the necessary le!el of international cooperation in the security area+ the Czech Republic 1ill see4 to reform its armed forces and 1or4 for the allocation of sufficient resources to defence needs.

+ransfor"ing ,A+- for the ,e% 'ecurity n!iron"ent

"he Czech Republic 1ill ta4e part in the implementation of the decisions of the Prague 2A"O (ummit to ensure the defence capabilities and military assets necessary to manage ne1 asymmetrical threats+ including the pre!ention of terrorism. 8ithin the APrague Capabilities CommitmentA

15

initiati!e+ the Czech Republic 1ill commit to fourteen national tas4s to encourage specialisation of the Czech Republic Army in the field of protection against 1eapons of mass destruction+ passi!e sur!eillance systems and military healthcare. #t 1ill also oin the process of building the 2A"O response force.

As part of the restructuring of the 2A"O command structure+ the Czech Republic 1ill see4 the establishment of an operational centre of e/cellence for protection against 1eapons of mass destruction on its territory. "he Czech Republic 1ill also oin fi!e initiati!es aimed at the protection against these 1eapons and the Action Plan on Ci!il &mergency Planning. #n relation to the 2A"O discussions on the means of defence against the threat of missile attac4s+ the Czech Republic 1ill consider the forms of its contribution to any potential missile defence system.

"he Czech Republic does not percei!e the efforts to transform and adapt 2A"O as threatening to any country or organisation but rather as an e/pression of the determination to protect allied territories+ their inhabitants and military forces against any e/ternal attac4+ including a terrorist attac4 in!ol!ing the potential use of 1eapons of mass destruction.

,A+- and the uropean 'ecurity and #efence Identity

As an ad!ocate of a strong &uro*Atlantic partnerships+ the Czech Republic is interested in further strengthening 2A"O ? &' cooperation and the

organization6s complementarity in the political and security fields. "ogether 1ith other 2A"O and &' member countries+ the Czech Republic 1ill participate in the negotiation of concrete agreements on close cooperation and coordination bet1een the t1o organisations in conflict

11

pre!ention and crisis management. "he Czech Republic 1ants these agreements to ser!e as the foundation for the strategic 2A"O * &'

partnership so that the pro ect of the Common &uropean (ecurity and 9efence Policy becomes fully operational.

Relations bet%een ,A+- and the Russian Federation and ).raine

"he Czech Republic 1ill support the efforts of 2A"O for broader and deeper cooperation 1ith the Russian Federation+ in particular for continued acti!e cooperation in combating terrorism+ in the field of defence reforms+ oint peace4eeping and humanitarian operations+ ci!il emergency planning and missile defence 1hile respecting the independence of the 2A"O decision*ma4ing processes and its o1n security interests. #t 1ill also support cooperation 1ith the '4raine.

8ith regards to cooperation 1ith Russia in the security dimension+ the Czech Republic 1ill base its policies in the 2A"O * RF Founding Act+ the Rome 9eclaration of 7ay 2552 and in the defined spheres of cooperation 1ithin the 2A"O * RF Council.

Further ,A+- nlarge"ent

"he Czech Republic 1ill support the open*door policy of the Alliance and 1ill cooperate 1ith all countries see4ing membership of 2A"O. #t 1ill share its e/perience in the accession process and 1or4 1ith them 1ithin 2A"O 1here appropriate according to their interest.

-'C

12

"he Czech Republic 1ill promote the strengthening of the role of the Organisation for (ecurity and Cooperation in &urope as an important international organisation de!eloping its acti!ities in the &uro*Atlantic and Central Asian regions. #t 1ill participate in the political * military+ economic and en!ironmental+ and human dimensions of O(C&. "he Czech Republic 1ill support proposals for the adaptation of the O(C& to meet ne1 tas4s+ including the updating of its instruments. #t 1ill continue to contribute to1ards the funding of O(C& regional acti!ities and assign personnel to such acti!ities.

), Acti!ities in the 'ecurity Area

8ith a1areness of the contribution of the '2 to international peace and security+ the Czech Republic 1ill see4 to promote '2 cooperation 1ith the &'+ 2A"O and O(C& in resol!ing issues in!ol!ing &uropean security. #t 1ill particularly support '2 acti!ities complementing the efforts of these organisations in the field of conflict pre!ention and settlement+ post* conflict stabilisation+ assistance to refugees and humanitarian aid+ the strengthening of respect for human rights+ the fight against terrorism+ crime and narcotic drugs+ economic rene1al and de!elopment

cooperation.

F ,ht "," n+t Terror +m

"he Czech Republic 1ill acti!ely engage in the fight against terrorism+ including efforts to eliminate its roots. #t is promoting the broadest concept of an antiterrorist campaign+ 1ith a strong emphasis on international cooperation that is focused in the long run on all forms of combating international organised crime+ narcotic drug traffic4ing+ trade in 1eapons

1$

and persons+ corruption and all forms of funding terrorism. "he basic strategic document of the Czech Republic in this respect is the regularly updated 2ational Action Plan for the Fight against "errorism. "he Czech Republic 1ill follo1 up its acti!e participation in antiterrorist acti!ities 1ithin the '2+ the &uropean 'nion+ 2A"O+ O(C&+ the Council of &urope and other organisations.

Arm+ Control$ Non3-rol fer"t on of 4e"pon+ of !"++ 5e+truct on "nd Intern"t on"l 5 +"rm"ment

"he Czech Republic attaches great importance to arms control+ non* proliferation of 1eapons of mass destruction and the long*term policy of international disarmament.

/eapons of &ass #estruction

"he Czech Republic 1ill acti!ely oin+ 1ithin international organisations and '2 con!entions+ the political processes aimed at the gradual reduction of the number of nuclear 1eapons and compliance 1ith the complete ban on chemical and biological 1eapons. 8ithin 2A"O as 1ell as 1ithin the '2 and other international organisations+ it 1ill promote the adoption of further measures to increase defence and protection capacities against 1eapons of mass destruction.

"he Czech Republic 1ill also acti!ely continue to cooperate 1ith international control regimes aimed at pre!enting the proliferation of 1eapons of mass destruction+ including their means of deli!ery. #n the conte/t of the fight against international terrorism+ it 1ill pursue further steps to strengthen the e/isting mechanisms in this field.

1%

Con!entional Forces and /eapons

From the !ery beginning of its e/istence the Czech Republic has regarded the "reaty on Con!entional Armed Forces in &urope as a 4ey contribution to a safer and integrated &urope. #t is prepared to start the ratification of the adapted "reaty as soon as the Russian Federation meets all the political commitments it assumed at the 1BBB O(C& (ummit in #stanbul. "he Czech Republic 1elcomes the intention of other countries to accede to the adapted "reaty on Con!entional Armed Forces in &urope after its entry into effect.

"he Czech Republic 1ill participate in the implementation of the "reaty on Open (4ies and the 1BBB Cienna 9ocument on Confidence and (ecurity )uilding 7easures.

"he Czech Republic 1ill also participate in confidence building bet1een countries in this field 1ithin the '2 by pro!iding information to the con!entional arms and military spending registers.

.)#) * l"ter"l "nd Re, on"l Cooper"t on n the 2uro3Atl"nt c Are"

Rel"t on+ 6 th Ne ,hbour n, Countr e+

"he Czech Republic attaches utmost importance to cooperation 1ith neighbouring countries at bilateral+ multilateral as 1ell as at regional le!els. #t 1ill further de!elop close cooperation 1ith the Cisegrad 3roup and 1ith other Central &uropean groupings undergoing a similar economic and political transformation and integrating into the &uro*Atlantic and

1-

&uropean structures.

Relations %ith the 'lo!a. Republic

8ithin the frame1or4 of e/ceptional relations 1ith (lo!a4ia+ the Czech Republic 1ill focus on further intensification of cooperation at both bilateral and regional le!els. "he Czech Republic is particularly committed to e/tending this cooperation in the field of economic relations. #t e/pects ne1 opportunities to arise including ne1 dimensions of cooperation at the &uropean le!el after the entry of the t1o countries into the &'. "he impending accession of the (lo!a4 Republic to 2A"O offers room for the intensification of the cooperation that is also successfully de!eloping in the security area.

Relations %ith the Republic of Poland

&!en after its accession to the &uropean 'nion+ the Czech Republic 1ill aim to further de!elop cross*border cooperation 1ith the Republic of Poland+ 1hich has traditionally secured good*neighbourly relations. "his cooperation should particularly intensify in the construction of transport infrastructure and the further de!elopment of trade and cultural relations.

Relations %ith the Federal Republic of 0er"any

"he Czech Republic 1ill de!elop multifaceted contacts 1ith the Federal Republic of 3ermany. #t 1ill stem from the need to con!erge Czech * 3erman relations to1ards the common future in a united &urope on the basis of partnership in the &uropean 'nion. "oday6s good*neighbourly relations are based on the 1BB0 Czech * 3erman 9eclaration and the 1BB2

1.

"reaty on 3ood*2eighbourly Relations and Friendly Cooperation.

"he Czech Republic 1ill strain to1ards further intensification of Czech * 3erman relations at all le!els+ both 1ithin the &uro*Atlantic structures ;&'+ 2A"O< and at the bilateral and regional le!els 1ith a special emphasis to be put on the participation of public+ in particular young people+ in this process. #n this respect+ it attaches special importance to cross*border cooperation+ de!elopment of transport communications+ impro!ement of the en!ironment and cultural e/changes.

Relations %ith the Republic of Austria

#n its relations 1ith the Republic of Austria the Czech Republic 1ill proceed from its commitment to de!elop good*neighbourly relations and on the basis of the common future for the &uropean 'nion. "he Czech Republic 1ill stri!e for the deepening of constructi!e and fair cooperation in all fields+ including trade and cross*border cooperation+ transport

infrastructure and en!ironmental protection 1ith a special emphasis on building an atmosphere of mutual confidence.

Relations %ith the Republic of 1ungary

8ithin the immediate Central &uropean region+ the Czech Republic is committed to culti!ating its partnership 1ith the Republic of >ungary+ a country 1ith 1hich it is lin4ed by the intensi!e de!elopment of bilateral relations+ and in particular by successful cooperation among the Cisegrad countries.

Re, on"l Cooper"t on n Centr"l 2urope

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*isegrad Cooperation

Cooperation 1ithin the Cisegrad 3roup ;C%< 1ill loose nothing of its importance e!en after the entry of the C% countries into the &uropean 'nion. According to the Czech Republic+ one of the priorities is to strengthen the direct engagement of the C% citizens and the de!elopment of cross*border cooperation bet1een the Cisegrad countries. "he Czech Republic 1ill also support cooperation bet1een the C% and other regional groupings ;)enelu/ or the 2ordic Council< or 1ith other countries interested in such cooperation.

Cross-2order Cooperation and uroregions

"he Czech Republic 1ill de!elop cross*border cooperation and promote cooperation 1ithin &uroregions regarded as the ne1 and efficient instrument for enhancing bilateral and regional communication and the pre!ention of hampering phenomena in borderline areas.

Central uropean Initiati!e and -ther Regional Initiati!es

8ith respect to the Central &uropean #nitiati!e ;C&#<+ the Czech Republic 1ill not only aim at strengthening of the democratic structures and internal political stability of the member countries affected by conflicts but also at transformation of their respecti!e economies. >ence+ it 1ill support the strengthening of the C&# economic dimension and closer cooperation bet1een the C&# and the &uropean 'nion. #t 1ill also support C&# enlargement to include other states of the region that sho1 interest and 1in support from the other member countries.

1@

Participation in the acti!ities of other regional initiati!es that 1ill be beneficial for cooperation in the region 1ill also remain the core interest.

Rel"t on+ 6 th USA$ C"n"d" "nd Inte,r"t n, 2urope"n Countr e+

Relations %ith )'A and Canada

#n the ne1 international political conte/t of the membership in 2A"O and &'+ the Czech Republic 1ill pay special attention to de!eloping close and friendly relations 1ith '(A and Canada. "he Czech Republic is interested in the e/pansion of the economic engagement of these countries and in attracting American and Canadian in!estment into the country+ as 1ell as into Central &urope as a 1hole.

Relations %ith the uropean &e"ber and Candidate Countries of ,A+and )

"he Czech Republic 1ill see4 to de!elop close relations 1ith all 2A"O member states in &urope and 1ith countries of the &uropean 'nion+ including ne1 member and candidate countries of the t1o integration groupings. #n its bilateral relations 1ith countries of the &uropean 'nion+ the Czech Republic 1ill focus+ inter alia+ on identifying shared priorities+ positions and interests and on methods of cooperation in their promotion 1ithin the 'nion.

+he Czech Republic and F+A Countries

"he Czech Republic 1ill de!elop relations 1ith countries of the &uropean

1B

Free "rade Association at both the bilateral le!el and 1ithin the frame1or4 of its membership of the &uropean 'nion.

Rel"t on+ 6 th Countr e+ of 2"+tern "nd South 2"+tern 2urope

Relations %ith ) Associated Countries

"he Czech Republic 1ill further de!elop bilateral and multilateral cooperation 1ith countries of &astern and (outh &astern &urope that ha!e concluded+ or see4 conclusion of Association Agreements 1ith the &'+ and is prepared to share its e/perience in negotiations 1ith them+ preparations for and accession to the &' as 1ell as its e/perience after its entry into the 'nion.

Relations %ith the Russian Federation and ).raine

#n addition to the security dimension of relations 1ith the Russian Federation as mentioned abo!e+ the Czech Republic 1ill continue in its endea!our to broaden the scope and impro!e the mutually beneficial economic cooperation 1ith the Russian Federation and also 1ith '4raine. #n order to do so+ it 1ill ta4e ad!antage of the already e/isting contacts+ the good name of Czech products in these countries+ and the o!erall 4no1ledge of the region. "he Czech Republic considers cooperation 1ith the prospering regions of the Russian Federation to be promising. Relations %ith the -ther CI' Countries

#n its relations 1ith the other C#( countries the Czech Republic 1ill build on the tradition of close economic contacts 1ith indi!idual countries and 1or4 to1ards the e/pansion of mutually beneficial economic cooperation.

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Relations %ith Countries of 'outh astern urope

"he Czech Republic is a1are of the comple/ situation in the (outh &astern &uropean countries that 1ere struc4 by armed conflicts in the 1BB5s. "ogether 1ith the international community+ the Czech Republic 1ill stay engaged in the process of economic rene1al and stabilisation of this region by means of the (tability Pact. 8ithin the frame1or4 of these efforts it 1ill rely on the tradition of long*standing friendly relations 1ith the countries of (outh &astern &urope and 1ill build on economic relations de!eloped in the past in the field of engineering+ po1er and industrial products. "he Czech Republic 1ill at the same time offer these countries its e/perience in the area of integration and transformation.

.).) The Czech Republ c "nd Countr e+ of A+ "$ Afr c"$ Au+tr"l " "nd L"t n Amer c"

Relations %ith Countries of Asia3 Africa3 Australia and $atin A"erica

"he Czech Republic 1ill de!elop bilateral and multilateral relations 1ith the countries of Asia+ Africa+ Australia and ,atin America on the basis of mutually beneficial cooperation+ in particular in the economic field. #t 1ill promote all initiati!es aimed at maintaining and reinforcing stability and security in the indi!idual regions+ and 1ill acti!ely participate in such acti!ities 1ithin the limits of its capacities.

#n its political dialogue 1ith these countries it 1ill place special emphasis on the obser!ance of inalienable human rights and 1ill regard this as a criterion for credibility+ and in the long run also for prospects of economic

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relations 1ith indi!idual countries.

"he Czech Republic 1ill pay special attention to trade and in!estment opportunities in countries 1ith 1hich former Czechoslo!a4ia maintained good economic contacts+ and 1here many specialists ha!e studied at secondary schools or 'ni!ersities.

#n light of the accession into the &'+ the Czech Republic 1ill accept and follo1 the &uropean 'nions policies to1ards these regions.

Relations %ith Countries of Asia

Relations 1ith the countries of Asia and the Pacific 1ill be de!eloped in conformity 1ith the policy pursued to1ards this region by the &uropean 'nion. "he Czech Republic 1ill ta4e ad!antage of the tradition of the country in this part of the 1orld. 8ithin the frame1or4 of its economic policy+ the Czech Republic 1ill focus on cooperation 1ith the Association of (outh*&ast Asian 2ations ;A(&A2< member countries 1hile in the political field it 1ill see4 participation in the Asia * &urope 7eeting ;A(&7< multilateral frame1or4.

Relations %ith Countries of the &iddle ast and ,orth Africa

#n the 7iddle &ast and 2orth Africa+ the Czech Republic 1ill pursue bilateral ob ecti!es. #t 1ill ad!ocate peaceful settlement in the 7iddle &ast based on security+ political and economic guarantees of stability across the region. #ts primary positions on possible solution of the situation 1ill depend upon the respecti!e '2 (ecurity Council resolutions and acti!ities of the parties concerned+ 1ith respect to the legitimate security

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re:uirements of #srael and the establishment of a !iable and independent Palestinian state. "he Czech Republic 1ill pursue the policy of the &uropean 'nion aimed at strengthening security and cooperation 1ithin the 7editerranean region. #t 1ill support all legitimate steps aimed at eliminating the danger represented by 1eapons of mass destruction and dictatorial regimes in the region.

Relations %ith Countries of 'ub-'aharan Africa

#n its policy to1ards (ub*(aharan Africa+ the Czech Republic 1ill concentrate on countries 1ith stable regimes 1ith 1hich it maintains traditional economic relations+ and on states 1here cooperation appears to ha!e good prospects. As much as possible+ the Czech Republic 1ill support African countries+ inter alia+ also in the implementation of the 2e1 Partnership for Africa6s 9e!elopment ;2&PA9< programme+ and 1ill participate in such acti!ities of the international community+ 1hich are aimed at helping to settle conflicts and stabilise the situation in crisis regions of the African continent.

Relations %ith Countries of $atin A"erica

#n ,atin America+ the Czech Republic 1ill concentrate on cooperation 1ith its traditional trading partners. Furthermore+ it 1ill cooperate 1ith Central American and Caribbean countries 1ith e/isting prospects for increasing trade e/change.

.)7) The Czech Republ c n Intern"t on"l Or,"n +"t on+

The Czech Republ c "nd the Un ted N"t on+ Or,"n +"t on

2$

), and International 'ecurity

"he Czech Republic regards the sustenance of international peace and security as one of the main missions of the '2. #t shall+ therefore+ support steps aimed at reinforcing the authority+ efficiency and capabilities of the '2 in conflict pre!ention and resolution+ crisis management+ pro!ision of humanitarian assistance and post*conflict reconstruction. #t 1ill participate in '2 peace4eeping operations 1ithin its capacities. "he Czech Republic also attaches great importance to the '26s potential of managing other ma or international issues and forming broad international support for the combat of international terrorism.

I"ple"entation of the &illenniu" #eclaration

"he Czech Republic 1ill 1or4 to1ards an effecti!e and transparent implementation of the de!elopment goals of the 7illennium 9eclaration and to1ards ust access to the ad!antages of globalisation in accordance to the results of ma or international conferences ;9oha+ 7onterrey+ Dohannesburg<. #t 1ill also pay increased attention to sustainable de!elopment in its economic+ social and en!ironmental aspects+ as 1ell as to the promotion of democratisation processes and respect for human rights. 8ithin its capacities+ the Czech Republic 1ill increase its participation in multilateral cooperation through the de!elopment

programmes of the '2 and other international organisations.

International $a% and 1u"an Rights

8ithin the frame1or4 of the '2+ the Czech Republic 1ill 4eep on pursuing

2%

its policy of strengthening international la1 and respect for human rights.

), Refor"

"he Czech Republic supports the efforts aimed at reforming the '2+ including the identification of ne1 tas4s for the organisation itself+ and impro!ement of its present mechanisms and structures. 3i!en the dynamic de!elopment of international relations and the need to adapt to these changes+ the Czech Republic considers the reform a thematic and long*term tas4. "he reform of the (ecurity Council+ aimed at ma4ing its composition reflect the transformations the 1orld has undergone since its latest phase of enlargement+ constitutes a special challenge. "he Czech Republic 1ill promote the reform efforts 1ithin the '2 through its representati!es inside the '2 bodies.

Candidacies for -rganisations of the ), 'yste"

"he Czech Republic 1ill see4 its ade:uate representation in the bodies and among staff of the '2 organisations+ namely membership in the &conomic and (ocial Council+ and subse:uently in the (ecurity Council.

The Czech Republ c "nd the Counc l of 2urope

"he Council of &urope plays an essential role in the de!elopment and strengthening of all*&uropean legal+ ethical and social !alues+ plural democracy+ the rule of la1 and the protection of human rights and minority rights. "he Czech Republic 1ill further integrate into the Council of &urope treaty system and 1ill acti!ely participate in the drafting of international legal documents in respect to the combat of international

2-

terrorism. #t 1ill also continue to pay attention to the reform of the &uropean Court of >uman Rights+ as its present mechanisms are insufficient for dealing 1ith complaints filed by indi!iduals and the Council of &urope6s member states.

The Czech Republ c "nd Intern"t on"l 2conom c "nd F n"nc "l Or,"n +"t on+

+he International &onetary Fund and the /orld 2an. 0roup

"he Czech Republic 1ill participate in the acti!ities of the #nternational 7onetary Fund and of the #nternational )an4 for Reconstruction and 9e!elopment+ as 1ell as the acti!ities of other organisations of the 8orld )an4 3roup. #t 1ill use their e/pertise and contribute to pro ects carried out by these organisations in other countries. #t 1ill ta4e part in discussions on reforms of these institutions aimed at dealing more effecti!ely 1ith the negati!e phenomena of globalisation in the field of finance and capital mo!ement.

/orld +rade -rganisation

"he Czech Republic 1ill pay special attention to cooperation 1ith the 8orld "rade Organisation ;8"O<. #t 1ill support further liberalisation of all forms of 1orld trade 1ith emphasis on ser!ices and agriculture+ and 1ill initiate negotiations of such conditions that 1ould pro!ide for the creation of a multilateral trade frame1or4 beneficial for all members of the organisation. #t 1ill closely attend to the due fulfilment of commitments by all 8"O members+ including the respect of the rights of the Czech Republic by other member countries. "he Czech Republic supports the e!er*

2.

increasing participation of de!eloping countries in 1orld trade.

Potential trade and political measures in foreign trade 1ill be made in accordance 1ith the pro!isions of treaties that are part of the "reaties establishing the 8orld "rade Organisation+ as 1ell as 1ith other international commitments binding the Czech Republic. 'pon accession to the &uropean 'nion+ the Czech Republic 1ill adopt trade and political measures 1ithin the &' common trade policy and 1ill obser!e the respecti!e &' regulations.

/orld +ouris" -rganisation

"he Czech Republic 1ill also pay special attention to cooperation 1ith the 8orld "ourism Organisation. #t 1ill acti!ely participate in the de!elopment and promotion of international tourism 1ith the aim of contributing to the o!erall economic de!elopment of the member countries. #t 1ill also promote 8"O programme acti!ities+ in particular in the field of statistics+ increase in the ser!ice :uality+ training and funding.

- C#

"he Czech Republic 1ill also approach the dialogue 1ith the Organisation for &conomic Cooperation and 9e!elopment ;O&C9<. #t 1ill ta4e ad!antage of the recommendations of this organisation+ arising from the analyses of economic policies of of member countries+ and cooperate in the

implementation

O&C9

horizontal

pro ects

re:uiring

international

cooperation. "he Czech Republic 1ill also closely cooperate 1ith O&C9 non* members and 1ill promote the e/pansion of O&C9 standards to other regions outside the member countries.

20

uropean In!est"ent 2an.

'pon its accession to the &uropean 'nion+ the Czech Republic 1ill automatically become a member of the &uropean #n!estment )an4 ;&#)<. "hereupon it 1ill be desirable conditions to continue to benefit this ban4 from for the the

ad!antageous

financial

pro!ided

by

de!elopment of social areas and infrastructure.

Participation of the Czech Republic in -ther International 2an.s

"he Czech Republic is also the member of the &uropean )an4 for Reconstruction and 9e!elopment ;&)R9<+ the Council of &urope

9e!elopment )an4 ;C&)<+ the #nternational #n!estment )an4 ;##)< and the #nternational )an4 for &conomic Cooperation ;#)&C<. #n relation to the &)R9+ the Czech Republic 1ill promote acti!ities focused on the pri!ate sector+ and 1ithin the C&) it 1ill participate in social pro ects. As far as the ##) and #)&C are concerned+ the Czech Republic 1ill acti!ely participate in the 1or4 aimed at re!italising these ban4s. #f it finds these efforts unrealistic+ it 1ill consider 1ithdra1al from these ban4s.

.)8) 29tern"l 2conom c Rel"t on+ "nd Fore ,n A d -rov ded by the Czech Republ c

2conom c 5 plom"cy$ 29port3Or ented -ol cy

cono"ic #iplo"acy

"he Czech Republic 1ill strengthen the economic dimension of its foreign

2@

policy as a comple/ of coordinated acti!ities of different entities aimed at creating e/ternal conditions for economic de!elopment. #t 1ill particularly focus on promoting the intentions and measures of its economic policy in bilateral relations+ in integration groupings and in the dialogue de!eloped in international economic organisations. #t 1ill place emphasis on ta4ing optimal ad!antage from the conditions arising from the accession of the Czech Republic to the &uropean 'nion. &conomic diplomacy 1ill also focus on gathering impulses go!ernment. to encourage the economic policy of the

cono"ic #iplo"acy in 2ilateral Relations "he economic dimension of bilateral relations 1ill remain a priority tas4 of the Czech diplomatic missions abroad. "he tas4 of diplomats 1or4ing in the economic field 1ill be to help create conditions for the de!elopment of concrete trade contacts and to attract foreign direct in!estment into the Czech Republic. 9ialogue bet1een go!ernment representati!es+ senior go!ernment officials+ and business missions on concrete issues related to e/ternal economic relations 1ill remain part of the economic diplomacy.

cono"ic #iplo"acy in &ultilateral Relations

At the multilateral le!el of the economic dimension of its foreign policy+ the Czech Republic 1ill strengthen its position in international economic organisations including the O&C9+ the 8orld )an4+ the #nternational 7onetary Fund and the 8orld "rade Organisation+ and 1ill acti!ely participate in their acti!ities.

'ustainable #e!elop"ent

2B

"hrough the de!elopment of its international economic cooperation+ the Czech Republic 1ill obser!e the strict implementation of en!ironmental and social standards corresponding 1ith its international commitments and national legislation. #n this area+ special emphasis 1ill be placed on responding to global challenges and managing their potential ris4s through pressing for+ and further deepening of principles of sustainable de!elopment on the international scale.

)nified Foreign 'er!ice 'trategy in cono"ic #iplo"acy

"he 1or4 of institutions and agencies+ playing a complementary role to that of the state in the field of foreign trade and the promotion of e/port and foreign in!estment inflo1+ 1ill be strictly coordinated 1ith the aim of achie!ing a !isible increase in the efficiency and conceptualisation in this important field of e/ternal relations of the Czech Republic. . (pecial attention in this area 1ill also be paid to impro!ing information systems to facilitate the access of Czech companies to information on trading opportunities abroad.

Fore ,n 5evelopment "nd :um"n t"r "n A d -rov ded by the Czech Republ c

+he 'ignificance of Foreign Assistance

"he Czech Republic 1ill stay in!ol!ed in formulating and implementing the ne1 international de!elopment strategy+ including the struggle against po!erty+ education promotion+ elimination of ine:uality of 1omen+ reduction of infant and maternal mortality+ access to health ser!ices and the implementation of a sustainable de!elopment strategy. "he Czech

$5

Republic also considers foreign de!elopment aid to be an instrument for promoting human rights and democratic !alues.

+he Place of Foreign Aid in the Foreign Policy of the Czech Republic

Foreign de!elopment and humanitarian aid remain an inseparable part of the foreign policy of the Czech Republic and 1ill be pro!ided in terms of funding and organisation in accordance 1ith the principles applied in the de!eloped countries. "he Czech Republic 1ill pro!ide foreign aid on both the bilateral basis and 1ithin international organisations ;'2+ O&C9< and the &uropean 'nion.

.);) -re+ent"t on of the Czech Republ c Abro"d$ Rel"t on+ 6 th Czech+ L v n, Abro"d "nd Rel"t on+ "t Non3Government"l Level

Pro"otion of the Czech Republic Abroad

"he Czech Republic 1ill focus in its foreign policy on goal*oriented and efficient presentation of the country+ regarding this field as one of the important 1ays of raising its prestige abroad. #t 1ill promote the combination of cultural+ economic+ tourist and other dimensions of this presentation+ using ne1 mass information media and technologies. #t 1ill also focus on ma/imum coordination of acti!ities de!eloped by indi!idual entities in this field.

Czechs $i!ing Abroad and Friends of the Czech Republic

Relations 1ith Czechs li!ing abroad+ and friends of the Czech Republic abroad+ 1ill continue to ha!e an important place in the country6s foreign

$1

policy. #n de!eloping such contacts+ the Czech Republic 1ill ta4e into account the distinctions of such communities and organisations. #t 1ill continue to support concrete pro ects of communities of Czechs li!ing abroad+ and of friends of the Czech Republic+ through funds and material help. #t 1ill also continue to promote programmes aimed at the preser!ation of Czech schools abroad+ community centres and other Czech cultural heritage in foreign countries+ and 1ill continue to pro!ide assistance to the communities of Czechs li!ing abroad. "he Czech Republic 1ill also see4 to further facilitate the ability of Czechs li!ing abroad to participate in the political life of the Czech society.

4ternal Relations at ,on-0o!ern"ental $e!els

#n pursuing its foreign policy+ the Czech Republic 1ill also pay due attention to relations and acti!ities de!eloped at non*go!ernmental le!el 1ith direct engagement of the ci!il society.