In his speech, Ambassador Matula recalled his recent meetings with His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf and Riksdag Speaker Andreas Norlén and noted the excellent level of mutual relations. The ambassador illustrated the closeness of our relations, among other things, by pointing to significant economic cooperation – Sweden is our 14th most important trading partner, the close coordination between our government authorities ahead of the European Council meeting, and our shared commitment to defending NATO's eastern flank, including the Czech and Swedish contributions to NATO's eFP and Air Policing.

The ambassador highlighted the fact that JAS 39 Gripen aircraft continue to safeguard Czech skies, adding that they will soon be joined by CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, manufactured in close cooperation between the Czech and Swedish defense industries. The CV90 will soon reinforce the Czech ground forces. If there is clear awareness of Swedish industrial products in the Czech Republic, then Škoda cars and Škoda Group trams play the same role in Sweden.

Ambassador Matula recalled an important milestone this year: the establishment of the Czech-Swedish Chamber of Commerce, which will serve as a new platform for strengthening our cooperation in trade and investment. There is undoubtedly a demand for a new platform. Czech and Swedish companies are increasingly forming partnerships in the areas of advanced manufacturing, clean technologies, and the circular economy.

State Secretary of the Ministry of Defense Peter Sandwall appreciated our similar views on EU priorities, strong cooperation in the field of defense, and the Czech Republic's unwavering support for Ukraine, including the internationally recognized ammunition initiative.

The first part of the reception was followed by a reception for the Czech expatriate community. Ambassador Matula praised the expatriates present for maintaining contact with their homeland and embracing their roots. The reception was attended by Czech men and women who left their homeland in connection with the occupation of Czechoslovakia by Soviet troops, the second and third generations of their descendants, and Czech men and women who came to Sweden later for work, study, or scientific opportunities.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to all our guests and partners who made this evening an unforgettable celebration of friendship, shared values, and future opportunities.

Special thanks go to Galatea for their generous sponsorship in the form of Budvar beer.