Czech Ambassador Visits La Grange
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Czech Ambassador Miloslav Stašek poses for a photo with directors of the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center: (from left) William H. Schovajsa, J. G. Hrncir, James Steffek, TCHCC President Retta Chandler, Ambassador Stašek, John Bartos and Walter Stoever. -
Czech Ambassador Miloslav Stašek shook hands with just about everyone in attendance Saturday. Photos by Andy Behlen
The Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange hosted a visit by Miloslav Stašek, the Czech Ambassador to the United States, on Saturday, May 25.
Stašek brought along a delegation of Czech diplomats and education officials who are working to establish ties with Texas businesses and universities.
Stašek said one of the main goals of the visit was to make preparations for a trip to Texas by Czech President Petr Pavel later this summer. Not only is Texas home to one of the largest communities of Czech descendants abroad, he said, but Texas also provides vital energy needs to the Czech Republic, especially liquid natural gas (LNG). Stašek said his nation now depends on Texas and Louisiana for LNG, ever since supplies from Russia were cut following the Ukraine War.
“This shows how important Texas is in our relationship with the United States,” Stašek said.
Former Fayette County Judge Ed Janecka attended the visit and praised Stašek for his country’s support of Ukraine in the war.
Stašek said President Pavel plans to visit La Grange during his trip to Texas, which is scheduled for July 13.
“We are so grateful to have all of you here today,” said TCHCC President Retta Chandler. “Maintaining communication with our homeland is vital. We share values and traditions. We look forward to working with you to continue to preserve Czech culture here in Texas and to stay up to date on all things Czech.”
Following the reception, the Czech delegation enjoyed a meal provided by the KJT. They also toured the Czech village at the TCHCC grounds and met privately with the TCHCC officials about potential collaborations.