In his speech, Ambassador Klepetko reminded the time of unfreedom in Czechoslovakia and formative historical moments of autumn days of 1939 and 1989, in which Czech and Slovak students played a pivotal role. Among them was the Ambassador himself, who in 1989 participated in the protests leading to the final restoration of freedom and democracy in modern Czechoslovak history. The Ambassador further recalled the importance of sport for both nations: Czechoslovak athletes excelled (not only) a few decades ago in run competitions, which are now dominated mostly by sportsmen and women from Kenya.

A fascinating film story dedicated to life and a epoch of racy and still unsurpassed Czechoslovak runner Emil "Ťopek" Zátopek, attracted a positive response not only from Czech and Slovak "domestic" viewers, but also foreign guests who have gained deeper awareness of the uniqueness and context of life of the most famous Czechoslovak runner, and a time that put difficult obstacles in his and his wife Dana's way.

The screening of Zátopek was not only a dignified reminder of the fateful moments of our and world recent history, but also a reminder of the non-obvious freedom in all human activities that we have been enjoying since November 1989. Thanks to life in freedom and democracy, people can pursue their happiness and develop their talents every day, including sports, without moral dilemmas and political oppression, which until 1989 Zátopek and many of their contemporaries had to face. May the only obstacles and difficulties that current and future generations of athletes face are only the sport-related ones.

Ambassador's opening remarks

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