I. Diplomatic Relations

There is Embassy-level representation between the two countries.  

ΙΙ. Framework of Treaties

There is currently a satisfactory existing framework of Treaties between the two countries.
The main agreements between Greece and the Czech Republic are the following: a) a Cultural Agreement, b) a Protocol of Military Cooperation between the Defense Ministries of the two countries that was signed in May 2001, and c) a Tourist Agreement (signed during the Czech President’s visit to Athens in November 2006). There are also other agreements that have been ratified, such as a Road Transport agreement, an agreement on the Promotion and Mutual Protection of Investments, and an agreement on Economic, Industrial and Technological Cooperation.

III. Political relations

Political relations are at a very good level, and have been strengthened following the Czech Republic’s accession to NATO and the European Union on 1.5.2004.

-          On 1-4 December 2009, the President of the Hellenic Republic visited Prague and had a meeting with his counterpart, Mr. Vaclav Klaus.

-          On 26-27 November 2008, Deputy Foreign Minister Yannis Valinakis had talks in Prague with Deputy Prime Minister for European Affairs Mr. Vondra and Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Kohout.

-          Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek carried out a visit to Greece on 11 and 12 April 2008 and met with Prime Minister Kostantinos Karamanlis within the framework of his visits and contacts in EU member states in view of the Czech EU Presidency.

-          On 14 April 2008, the Czech Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek visited Athens.

-          In November 2006, the President of the Czech Republic, Mr. Vaclav Klaus, carried out a visit to Greece and had meetings with the President of the Hellenic Republic and the Prime Minister.

 
V. Cultural/Educational relations

Bilateral cultural relations are governed by the Agreement on Cultural and Educational Cooperation, which was signed between Greece and Czechoslovakia in 1976. Four-year educational programmes have been signed in implementation of this agreement. The latest programme for the period 2006-2008 was signed in Athens and the procedure for its approval was completed in October 2006. These programmes provide for scholarships and mutual exchanges in education, science, and the arts, and they also cover cooperation between the two countries on media, youth, and sports programmes.

VI. Greek community

There are some 3,500 persons of Greek origin living in the Czech Republic, most of which have a dual citizenship. They are organised in 9 communities recognised by the Czech state (Ostrava, Bohumin, Karvina, Harivon, Sumperk, Krnov , Vrbno Pod , Pradedem, Trinec, Jes enic) and their second-level representation body is the Federation of Greek Communities. The most important communities are the one in Prague and the capital of Moravia, Brno. Furthermore, there are cultural organisations (Greek-Czech agencies), such as the “Association of friends of Nikos Kazantzakis” in Prague, and the "Hellenika Foundation" in Brno, which is responsible for cultural events.

The Greek language is taught at the University of Masaryk (Brno) and in Prague.

Last modified: February 2010