Czech Foreign Ministry Hosts Second National Development Day with a Spotlight on Africa
Prague, The Gulf Observer: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic held its second annual National Development Day on Friday, opening the gardens of the historic Czernin Palace to the public. The event featured informative exhibitions, development project showcases, and high-level discussions focused on international development policy and humanitarian aid. A significant part of this year’s program was dedicated to Africa Day, underscoring the continent’s growing geopolitical importance and the Czech Republic’s commitment to deepening cooperation.
Speaking at the opening of Africa Day, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský highlighted the continent’s expanding global influence, calling Africa a “promising partner for the future.” The Ministry organized panel discussions, roundtables, and expert dialogues to explore ways to foster balanced partnerships and innovative development strategies.
“This is about mutual cooperation, not just aid,” said Petr Gandalovič, Head of the Department for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid. “Africa represents both immense opportunity and significant challenges—climate change, migration, security risks. But above all, it is a continent of growing ambition and potential. Today is an opportunity to talk, plan, and work together.”
Throughout the day, diplomats, NGOs, investors, and development experts discussed a broad range of topics, including technological cooperation, youth empowerment, education, satellite imaging, landscape management, and support for civil society. Special attention was given to the Czech Republic’s six priority countries for development aid—Ethiopia and Zambia among them—highlighting longstanding ties and targeted cooperation efforts.
The event also drew attention to the Czech Republic’s role within the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). While the recommended investment in development aid is 0.3% of the GDP, Czechia allocated only 0.11% in 2023, with a further decline since. Still, the 2025 state budget earmarks 942 million CZK (approx. €37.9 million) for international development cooperation and humanitarian assistance.
As Gandalovič emphasized, the event’s core message is partnership: “We aim to show that development can and should happen in the most advanced areas, and that Africa must be seen not as a recipient but as an equal and self-confident partner.”
By inviting the public to engage directly with development policy initiatives, National Development Day also aims to foster transparency, awareness, and dialogue about the Czech Republic’s international commitments. With the success of this second edition, the Foreign Ministry reaffirms its dedication to long-term, inclusive global development.
