Prague: A dispute has emerged between the Czech president and the government over who should represent the country at an upcoming NATO summit in Ankara.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Czech government has indicated that President Petr Pavel should not attend the summit, stating that Prime Minister Andrej Babis, along with the defense and foreign ministers, will represent the country at the talks, Radio Prague International reported on Wednesday. The disagreement is the latest in a series of clashes between Pavel and the ruling coalition, with relations strained over issues, including ministerial appointments, defense spending, and foreign policy direction.

Pavel, who serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, has defended his position, arguing that the constitution grants him the authority to represent the country abroad. Government officials, however, maintain that foreign policy falls under the Cabinet’s authority and that decisions on international representation rest with the government. They also stressed that the Czech Republic does not operate under a presidential system.

Babis argued that the president’s participation in previous NATO summits took place under ‘standard circumstances,’ adding that current conditions require direct government representation, particularly on strategic and budgetary matters. Despite the standoff, Pavel has signaled a willingness to seek a compromise.

According to local media reports, he is considering joining the delegation in a limited capacity, potentially attending only sessions reserved for heads of state. ‘What matters is not whether I come out as a winner or loser in this – but what light it will throw on the Czech Republic,’ he said, warning that internal disputes could harm the country’s international standing. The NATO summit in Ankara on July 7-8 is expected to focus on key security challenges facing the alliance, placing additional attention on the Czech Republic’s internal divisions.