In his New Year's message, ČSSD chairman and former Czech Prime Minister Jiří Paroubek wished the public all the best for the Lunar New Year, health and well-being in their families.
Paroubek then stated that his important wish for the Czech Republic under the new leadership is „to begin to rebuild broken relations with the People's Republic of China - not only commercial and economic, but also cultural and human relations“.
When asked what is most important for the future of Czech-Chinese relations, Paroubek clearly answered: „I think the economics and mutual respect is important.“ This declaration emphasises the twin foundations of practical cooperation and egalitarian mutual trust.