BRUSSELS, July 1 (KUNA) -- The Czech Republic, Friday, took over the six-month rotating Presidency of the European Union from France at a time when Europe is facing major security challenges due to the war in Ukraine.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and its ramifications, energy security, strengthening European defense and economic issues are some of the priorities of the Czech presidency, according to Petr Fiaal, Prime Minister of the Czech Republic.
Speaking at a press conference alongside the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, in Prague on Thursday, he said, "We are confronted with great challenges to which we need to react in the area of security, economy, energy." He listed the war in Ukraine, energy security, economic situation in the EU as major priorities of his country's EU Presidency.
On his part, Michel said, "Rotating Presidencies have the power to drive forward our priorities." The main moto of the Czech Republic is "Europe as a Task: Rethink, Rebuild." The European Commission led by its President Ursula von der Leyen will visit the Czech town of Litomysl today to hold talks with the Czech Government and representatives of both chambers of the Czech Parliament about the program of the Presidency of the Czech Republic.
On May 1, 2004, the Czech Republic officially joined the EU. It is holding the EU Presidency for the second time.
The Czech Republic is a landlocked country in Central Europe with a population of around 10.5 million. (end) nk.gta