Positive developments in developing transport infrastructure and in the field of digitalisation should be continued in future, underscored Angela Merkel. "We are already cooperating on industry 4.0 (the digitalisation of traditional manufacturing) and German companies are interested in establishing cutting-edge technologies in the Czech Republic, particularly in conjunction with the automobile industry," said the Chancellor.

Exchange of views on Brexit

One of the main European-policy points on the agenda was Brexit. It is regrettable that the United Kingdom will be leaving the European Union, said Angela Merkel. The withdrawal negotiations must aim "to ensure that excellent, close relations with the UK are possible thereafter".

With a view to this month’s informal meeting of EU leaders under Austria’s EU Presidency, the Chancellor pointed to the significant progress that has been made in recent years in the field of migration policy.

Focus on migration-related issues

A high level of agreement exists between Germany and the Czech Republic on many migration-related issues. "We believe that the mechanism of the EU-Turkey Agreement could be the right mechanism for other countries too," stressed Angela Merkel.

The Chancellor praised the support of the Czech government in the field of development cooperation in order to address the root causes of displacement. Operation Sophia too offers scope for cooperation.

Fighting the causes of displacement

The reallocation of refugees remains a critical issue, with divergent approaches. "But when it comes to fighting the root causes of displacement, to development cooperation, and to fighting human traffickers and smugglers, we have a great deal of common ground," said Angela Merkel.

Apart from the common goals of preventing illegal migration and opening up legal migration channels, it is a question of solidarity when refugee ships reach the Italian coast. "When people come to us – and we have to remember we are talking about people – we cannot say to another country, just because it happens to be at the coast, it’s your problem".

Protecting the external border, preserving Schengen

Nevertheless, the two leaders agreed on the major migration-related issues, reported the Chancellor, and added that a great deal has already been achieved, also on protecting the EU’s external borders. "Because Schengen offers so many advantages, it is worth making every effort to preserve Schengen, and that includes protecting the external borders – and we will continue to work on that," stressed Angela Merkel.