Dear guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It is a great honor for me to assume patronage over the 17th edition of the Future Forces Forum. Looking back at our history—whether we recall the interwar tradition of the Czechoslovak defense industry, which was among the best in the world, or the heroism of our modern-day veterans—we see one major common thread. Our country has never been merely a passive observer; it has always possessed a strong technical and security genius loci.

Today, we continue this legacy with full responsibility. Our anchoring in the North Atlantic Alliance is unwavering and rests on the firm foundation of shared values. At the same time, a strong alliance relies on strong partners.

The personal dimension of our security lies in ensuring we do not miss the boat. Here at the exhibition center, we proudly demonstrate that our armed forces are keeping pace with our NATO allies. We can boast a whole range of innovations that we have recently managed to introduce into the military or that soldiers will receive very soon. The Czech Republic holds immense potential in domestic defense industry companies and defense ministry enterprises. Our know-how, cutting-edge research, and capacity for innovation are our most valuable assets. It is not just about purchasing technology, but about ensuring our equipment is fully interoperable with our allies and that the Czech defense industry delivers solutions that withstand the most demanding tests.

This is also why we are on track to meet the commitment of spending 2% of GDP on defense stably for the first time in our history starting next year. These funds are not just numbers on paper, but an investment in our self-sufficiency, in Czech minds, Czech companies, and a modern military.

The Future Forces Forum is an ideal venue where this potential meets reality. My sincere thanks go to the organizers for building a world-class platform. I wish this event continued success in setting the direction for defense innovation, attracting the brightest minds, and becoming a lasting symbol of technological progress and international cooperation in the years ahead. To all of you, I wish inspiring discussions and successful partnerships.