Czech opposition leaders criticize Foreign Minister Petr Macinka after debate with Polish counterpart at Munich Security Conference.
Czech Opposition Criticizes Macinka
Leaders of Czech opposition parties reacted to the debate involving Radosław Sikorski and Petr Macinka during the Munich Security Conference. Chairman of the Civic Democratic Party Martin Kupka stated that Czech Republic should defend its national interests but considered the foreign minister’s actions ineffective. “Such a foreign minister should not participate in international politics,” Kupka wrote on X.
Macinka’s “Munich Humiliation”
Chairman of the Mayors and Independents group Vit Rakusan called the Czech foreign minister’s performance a “Munich humiliation.” “One can argue with colleagues at international forums, but one needs to have arguments on one’s side. This is a terrible business card for the Václav Klaus Institute. And unfortunately for all of Czech Republic,” said Rakusan. Petr Macinka had previously worked with former Czech President Václav Klaus and his institute.
Pirates Party leader Ivan Bartos wrote that Macinka received a “painful lesson” during the debate in Munich. He added that the Czech foreign minister’s performance was a “complete failure.” Meanwhile, EU Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Sikela thanked Sikorski for “correcting anti-EU disinformation.”
Debate Between Sikorski and Macinka
During the Munich debate, Radosław Sikorski stated that “in Europe, for good historical reasons, for example in Poland, it is forbidden to speak on behalf of fascism and communism.” – We believe in freedom of speech, but with responsibility – he said. Macinka responded that “we should try to learn to listen to each other and not label an ideological opponent as a public enemy.” – I really don’t like labeling someone as a ‘fascist’ – he added.
The Czech foreign minister also questioned the democratic mandate of EU institutions. Sikorski in response emphasized that some people still adhere to fascist views, which also applies to residents of Europe.
Meeting of Polish and Czech Foreign Ministers
On Monday, February 16, the Czech foreign minister will meet with Sikorski in Warsaw. Before the meeting, Macinka expressed hope he could discuss the so-called democratic deficit in the European Union with his Polish counterpart. At 14:30, a joint press conference by Sikorski and Macinka will take place.