Matěj Ondřej Havel from Brussels: A Strong Europe Is Built on Responsible States, Security, and Support for Regions

"In the Czech Republic, we often hear that the European Union is to blame for our problems. The reality is different. The EU provides us with tools – a common market, cheaper energy, or a more stable financial environment. But reducing debt and kick-starting the economy is our domestic responsibility. No one in Brussels will do that for us," said Matěj Ondřej Havel following his meeting with TOP 09 MEP Luděk Niedermayer.

Together with another TOP 09 MEP, Ondřej Kolář, he addressed issues shaping Europe today – particularly migration, EU enlargement, and security. "The Czech voice is heard where stricter migration rules are being formed. At the same time, we must remain active in the enlargement process, for example towards Bosnia and Herzegovina, and strengthen our ties with the United States. Our security does not begin at the borders of the Czech Republic," Havel emphasized.

A key part of the program was a meeting with European Commissioner for Defence and Space Andrius Kubilius. Europe is entering a new security era, and his experience as a former Prime Minister of Lithuania— a country that has long warned of growing threats from the Kremlin—adds particular urgency to the debate on European defence.

"Russian provocations are increasing, and Europe must be prepared. I clearly stated that the goal should be defence spending at 5% of GDP. A discussion on deeper European defence cooperation, once considered taboo, is now a reality," he said.

With Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen, he opened the topic of the future of European agriculture. "Small farmers are the future. We agreed that their support must be one of the main priorities of European policy. Food security is the foundation of our sovereignty in times of geopolitical instability, and we cannot achieve it without strong regions. Investments in rural areas are therefore not only about agriculture, but about the overall stability of Europe," Havel stated.

An important part of the visit was also the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the European People's Party, of which TOP 09 is a member. Together with the Chairman of this political group and Bavarian MEP Manfred Weber, he discussed the rise of populism not only in Europe. "Populism is growing across Europe, and there are no simple solutions. That is why it is all the more important for democratic parties to offer a clear and responsible alternative," he noted.

Another significant meeting was a brief discussion with the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. "Her story shows that even a small country can influence the direction of Europe as a whole. We need more of that courage and confidence at home," he added.

During the visit, he also met with Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Both agreed to continue discussions in Prague in early April, focusing on support for democratic forces in Belarus.

"Europe is not a problem, but an opportunity. It is up to us whether we can make the most of it. TOP 09 will continue to advocate for a strong, secure, and economically responsible Europe – and for an active role of the Czech Republic within it," concluded TOP 09 Chairman Matěj Ondřej Havel.