IDET
24.-26.5. 2023

When asked whether the Czech Republic was in danger from radical Islamists, [finance minister Andrej] Babiš replied that we were not in imminent danger, but he was really dealing with the idea of intensive armament of the Czech army due to the proximity of conflicts. In this context, Babiš specifically mentioned Ukraine, the struggle against the Islamic State in the Middle East and the terrorist attacks in Europe.

"I think that our army has come up with a concept that will respond to these challenges," said the minister.

Special units with top equipment
According to Babiš, it will probably also increase the budget for the Ministry of Defence. By how much, that is a question of discussion according to the Minister. Babiš said however, that "if we live in fear of terrorism, I believe that we need a special unit with superior equipment, vehicles, helicopters. Also, our elite police units and intelligence services must have modern technologies available to them. "

The massacre in Paris will not have immediate impact on the CR, Babiš says, adding that we should still start thinking about immigration policy, given that the wave of immigration into Europe is growing from year to year.

"We must show solidarity towards refugees," says the Minister of Finance, and adds that we must take into account the differences of cultures, traditions and values. Babiš noted that these differences could be a problem in the long term.