Minister of the Foreign Affairs presents this award every year to those, who contribute significantly to propagation of a good reputation of the Czech Republic abroad.

Jón Ólafsson held the function of  honorary consul of the Czech Republic to the Republic of Iceland since 1994 until 2015.  Mr. Ólafsson contributed to spreading the good name of the Czech Republic and promoted Czech Republic´s interests in Iceland. He significantly supported  the development of Czech-Icelandic political, economic and cultural relations.

Gratias Agit prize was established by the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1997. Minister presents this award for exemplary activities in the non-governmental sector focusing on the promotion of the Czech Republic. Laureates are Czech compatriots who live abroad and spread the fame of their homeland, but also friends of the Czech Republic and distinguished personalities who selflessly promote the friendly relations between their countries and the Czech Republic. Among them we can see Bohemists, translators, scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, writers, teachers and athletes.