Czech’s Republic deteriorating ties with China over Beijing’s aggressive policies
China a systemic rival. The development is a reflection of the end of a period of peace and stability in Europe seen since the end of the Cold War. In fact, Czech-China relations have witnessed significant changes since 2021.
While once characterized by enthusiasm and economic potential, the Czech Republic now appears to be losing interest in its ties with China. The Czech Republic put relations with China under review after the Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala’s government took office in late 2021. The previous governments and former President Milos Zeman courted closer relations with both.
After the Ukraine war, the current centre- right government supported Kyiv by shipping military equipment including tanks, and has been one of its most active western backers. In the new security strategy statement, Czech government focussed on China alleging that China is calling into question the international order. This has adverse implications for Euro-Atlantic security, the document stated and accused China of weakening the influence and unity of democratic countries.
Czech’s previous security strategy, the core for policymaking, from 2015 had no mention of China. Czech diplomatic relations started becoming strained after Czech parliamentary leaders and the current cabinet pursued closer ties with Taiwan. Czech republic also got frustrated with China after plans for major Chinese investments failed to materialise.
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