Czech PM blocks official Taiwan trip

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has publicly criticized the planned trip to Taiwan by the head of the Czech Senate, stating the government will not provide an official plane for the visit. Babiš emphasized a desire for a more pragmatic foreign policy that does not damage the Czech Republic's business relations with China. The move highlights the ongoing tension between supporting democratic partners and maintaining economic ties with Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory. The Senate leader's trip, which would involve meeting Taiwanese officials, is now set to proceed without official government support.