Australia

Sydney

President Pavel began his programme in Sydney by meeting with members of Czech expatriate associations. He was received by the Governor of New South Wales, Margaret Beazley, and the Presiding Officers of both houses of the NSW Parliament. Their discussions focused on collaboration in key areas such as the defence industry, cybersecurity, and energy. President Pavel also inaugurated the Czech-Australian Business Seminar. At Sydney Town Hall, he delivered the 2024 Lowy Lecture to an audience of 350 distinguished guests, with the event simultaneously streamed online. The presidential couple also visited the iconic Sydney Opera House, which is set to feature Dvořák's Rusalka next year, symbolically highlighting Czech cultural influence in Australia.

Canberra

The primary highlight of President Pavel's visit to Canberra was the official opening of the new Czech Embassy building. This modern structure symbolises the Czech Republic's presence in the region and underscores the strength of diplomatic ties with Australia. The President met with Australia’s Governor-General, Sam Mostyn, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Defence Minister Richard Marles. Their discussions focused on current security challenges, collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, and the development of the defence industry.

Adelaide

In Adelaide, President Pavel visited the University of Adelaide, engaging in discussions with academics on opportunities for cooperation in modern technologies and artificial intelligence. He also met with the Czech expatriate community at the Czechoslovak Club, a key institution for preserving Czech and Slovak culture in the region. The President discussed avenues for enhancing relations between the Czech Republic and South Australia with Governor Frances Adamson, Premier Peter Malinauskas, and Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs.

New Zealand

Auckland

The President continued his visit to New Zealand, where he was welcomed with a traditional Māori Powhiri ceremony, a warm and symbolic gesture of mutual respect. At the University of Auckland, President Pavel delivered a speech focused on strengthening collaboration in science and research, while exploring academic partnerships under the Horizon Europe programme. He attended a business seminar fostering connections between Czech and New Zealand companies, particularly in innovative and technological sectors, building on the recently signed EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.

Wellington

In Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, President Pavel held several significant meetings. He engaged in discussions with New Zealand’s Governor-General, Dame Cindy Kiro, on shared values, security challenges, and opportunities for cooperation. He also met with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Defence Minister Judith Collins, focusing on defence collaboration, global security, and expanding trade relations. The President’s programme included a visit to the Czech expatriate community, which plays a vital role in preserving Czech culture and traditions in New Zealand.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Canberra highly values the positive outcomes of this presidential visit, which significantly deepened relations with Australia and New Zealand. We look forward to continuing and enhancing the friendly ties between our nations.

For more photographs, please visit www.hrad.cz.