The condolence book will be opened at the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Canada, 251 Cooper Street, Ottawa, K2P 0G2, on the following days:

 

Tuesday, November 14, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 15, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Alternatively, condolences can be delivered via e-mail: condolences@mzv.cz

Karel Schwarzenberg was Deputy Prime Minister and twice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic. He fought for his homeland his entire life, even when he and his family had to live in exile. With his unabated support for dissent and also in his role as chairman of the International Helsinki Committee for Human Rights from 1984 to 1990, he strove for the restoration of democracy and the rule of law in our country and around the world.

He advocated for the promotion of freedom and democracy and the firm position of the Czech Republic in NATO, the European Union and in the world. He opposed despotisms that threaten human freedom. He was aware of the importance of supporting human rights and standing up for those from whom they are denied.

 

With all this, he inspired two generations of Czech diplomats and together with his kindness, humility, insight, elegance and sense of humor, he left an indelible mark in Czech history.

On the occasion of the national holiday on October 28, 2023, Karl Schwarzenberg was awarded the highest Czech state award, the Order of the White Lion, for his lifelong "outstanding service to the state in the field of politics".

 

May we honor his memory!

 

Press release of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic from 11/13/2023