Former Minister Lipavský Joins Portlík's Election Team in Prague

Former Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský has joined the election team of Tomáš Portlík, who heads the joint ODS and TOP 09 list in Prague's municipal elections. Lipavský will serve as his adviser on international policy, and if Portlík becomes mayor of the Czech capital, as his diplomatic adviser.

Government experience

Lipavský led Czech diplomacy in Petr Fiala's government — initially as a minister for the Pirate Party. After the Pirates left the government, he remained in office as a non-affiliated politician. Last year, Lipavský ran for parliament from the Spolu coalition in the Prague constituency and won a seat.

"Prague could become a gateway to Europe"

According to Portlík, Prague has everything it needs to become a gateway to Europe: the city has strong universities, technology companies, a safe environment and a convenient location at the very heart of the continent. "What it lacks is someone who will systematically open doors for it around the world. That's why I want Jan Lipavský by my side. He has the experience, connections and authority that Prague needs," Portlík said.

Lipavský will help develop Prague's relations with world capitals, European and transatlantic partners, as well as foreign investors. He also plans to focus on cooperation in security, cyber threats and the city's resilience to risks.

Lipavský himself formally remains a non-affiliated politician, though he recently suggested he is considering joining ODS.

Around Prague, based on reporting by seznamzpravy.cz