Many experts say that today we are facing the biggest security crisis since the end of the Second World War. It's not difficult to understand why. Today’s world is characterised by the transformation of the geopolitical balance, the growing self-confidence of aggressive regimes and various non-state actors, and the rapid development of technologies that can be easily exploited. Our free and open civilisation has to cope with all this. Moreover, recent years have shown that hybrid or terrorist attacks are not the only real threats in our region – unfortunately, we must continue to be prepared for the risk of a traditional armed conflict.

We are well aware of that. Our government sees investment in defence as its top priority, and our results reflect this. The Czech Republic is today a valid, active and useful member of NATO and the EU. We have significantly increased the budget of the Ministry of Defence (by 35% year-on-year), so that for the first time in almost 20 years, as a member of the Alliance, we are meeting the commitment to sufficient defence spending. In close cooperation with our allies as well as our domestic industry, we are modernising the army, investing in the latest equipment (F35 fighters, Leopard tanks, Venom and Viper helicopters, MADR radars, infantry fighting vehicles and much more). We are repairing and modernising infrastructure (bases, airports, logistics centres) and introducing state-of-the-art communication systems.

However, our high level of security does not depend only on the state and its public institutions. The know-how of the private sector, the expert capacities of universities and the overall resilience of society also play an indispensable role.

All those interested in security issues can meet again at the events held within the Future Forces Forum project this October. It is an exceptional platform for professionals from the armed and security forces, experts, business representatives and representatives of partner countries of the Czech Republic, NATO and other international organisations. They can all share knowledge and promote cooperation for the safety of us all.

I would like to thank all the organisers for their long-standing efforts that have made the FFF a respected international event. We can be proud that it is connected with the Czech Republic. Our defence industry and research institutions can boast of their results here, which in many cases are world-leading.

I wish you a pleasant and inspiring visit!