In his speech to the Committee, Minister Lipavský reminded the Committee of the symbolism of this visit as the Czechia marks the 25th anniversary of its accession to the Alliance.

“The eastern border of NATO and the EU is the border where the grey zone of uncertainty begins. Today, the difference between being inside or outside is the difference between security and risk. I am pleased to say that after 25 years, NATO membership enjoys the support of the vast majority of the Czech population. NATO’s success is based on political will and the ability to adapt to new challenges – political, military and technological,” said Minister Lipavský in his opening remarks.

During the meeting, they also discussed the issues of adaptation to possible threats posed by the misuse of modern technologies. In this context, the Czech Minister also recalled the programmes (e.g. DIANA and NATO Innovation Fund) through which the Alliance supports the implementation of new technologies in strengthening its security and the Czech involvement in these programmes.

“Technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, biotechnology and quantum technologies are changing the character of conflicts. This is well reflected in the recently adopted strategic documents of NATO and Czechia,” said the head of Czech diplomacy.

The MPs were interested in, among other things, the Czech view of the situation in Ukraine, the prospects of Ukraine’s NATO membership from the Czech perspective, the continued Czech assistance to the Ukrainian armed forces and the prospects for cooperation in the V4 format.

The Science and Technology Committee of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly monitors trends in the areas of research and development, innovation, new technologies and examines their implications for the defence and security of the Alliance. Its leading topics include weapons of mass destruction, the use of artificial intelligence in defence, cybersecurity and space security.

Minister Lipavský met with representatives of the Committee on Science and Technology of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly