Petr Pavel: The topic of defence and security is more topical than ever

"This year's IDET, PYROS and ISET fairs are the best in the region and the biggest in their history. And it is no coincidence that the topics of defence, internal and external security, as well as the resilience of our crisis system and the preparedness of state institutions and citizens are more relevant than they have ever been before. The security situation in the world and in Europe, as well as the effects of climate change, make it clear that we will not be spared either crises or conflicts," the President said in his introduction. Therefore, he said, it is important for representatives of the army, business, politics and the public to meet so that they can better understand security and defence issues, monitor trends and communicate openly about the needs of the armed forces and their implementation.

At the same time, we need to contribute to seeing the security and defence of our country as a common task for all of us. "If the Czech Republic is to be secure in the future, it must fulfil a number of factors and requirements. In the first place, it is the will of citizens to defend what we care about and, on that basis, to support the government in its efforts to provide defence, including adequate spending. And it is also our membership in the European Union and NATO, which has been a guarantee of our freedom, sovereignty and security for many years," said Petr Pavel. It is within these two institutions, he said, that we must cooperate much more to ensure security and defence, which must be seen as comprehensive. "Defence is not only about all parts of society, but really about all areas of our lives. That is why I am glad that the concept of these fairs is also comprehensive, that it is not just a showcase of new possibilities for the military, but that it looks at the issue of security and defence across the whole spectrum of our needs," he added.

The President also appreciated the fact that expert discussions with representatives of our defence industry are taking place at IDET. ‘It is the open debate between industry and the military that is absolutely crucial in shaping requirements, not only to ensure that the direction of research and production meets our needs and goals, but also to make this process as short and efficient as possible,’ he stressed. At the same time, he said, it is necessary not only to support the domestic defence industry, but also to intensify industrial cooperation within the European Union and NATO. The pooling of research and development funds will make it possible to increase the efficiency of research, which is now significantly lower in Europe than in the US, for example.

In conclusion, Petr Pavel thanked all those who had participated in the preparation of the trade fairs and wished the participants very successful negotiations, which will ultimately lead to a greater sense, but also a reality of security for all of us.