CZECH REPUBLIC / FILE: Czech and Polish PMs say missile shield extremely important for relations between both countries

A proposed US missile defence system was high on the agenda when the presidents of Poland and the Czech Republic met near Prague on Monday (May 21) night. Washington wants to place 10 interceptor missiles in Poland and a radar in the Czech Republic, at a cost of USD3.5 billion. Polish president Lech Kaczynski and his Czech counterpart, Vaclav Klaus met for dinner at Lany Castle Monday evening, before speaking to journalists. Kaczynski said it was in Polish interests to discuss the defence system with the US, but nothing would be done without keeping Klaus informed. Klaus acknowledged the importance of the project to both countries. "I would like to say that both of us know this is extraordinarily important for future Czech - Polish relations. It is the main reason to work together and not one against the other," he said. The US plan has resulted in strong opposition from the Czech public, and there have been several rallies urging the government to hold a referendum on the issue. It has also upset Russia, which doesn't want to see US missile defences in the region. Kaczynski and Klaus also appeared to agree on their view of a European Union constitution. "We have a very similar view on how the (EU) constitution should look, as a whole," Kaczynski said. "The constitution should be shorter. The first part should be very basically changed, the second should be changed partly and the third should stay just in fragments," he added. He then expressed his delight at finding a fellow head of state who was of a similar opinion to his own. "I am very glad I have met a person who knows what he is talking about," Kaczynski said. The two men will meet again on Thursday (May 24) when they take part in a summit of presidents from Central European states.

ITN Source | May 23, 2007

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