Summary
Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, met with Czech Chamber of Deputies Speaker Markéta Pekarová Adamová in Beijing on 23 July 2026. He said this year marks the 10th anniversary of the China-Czech strategic partnership and expressed willingness to resume exchanges across various fields, explore cooperation in new energy and electric vehicles, and strengthen legislative contacts. Pekarová Adamová reaffirmed the Czech Republic's commitment to the one-China policy and expressed hope for enhanced cooperation in tourism, trade, cultural exhibitions, and direct flights, welcoming Chinese visitors.
Zheng Jianbang attended the meeting. The two sides also exchanged views on global AI governance.
Commentary
The high-level talks signal China's push to deepen ties with Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in new energy and electric vehicles. The Czech Republic, a traditional European automotive powerhouse, hosts brands such as Škoda and a mature supply chain. Chinese automakers could bypass high anti-subsidy tariffs by localising production there, gaining a foothold in the European market.
This may intensify global EV capacity competition. Chinese brands such as BYD already hold a share of New Zealand's EV import market; European capacity expansion could shift their export focus, while NZ small and medium enterprises should watch for changes in vehicle supply and pricing. Meanwhile, discussions on tourism and direct flights between China and the Czech Republic could, if successful, divert potential Chinese visitors away from New Zealand.
NZ's tourism sector still relies on the return of Chinese tourists, and direct flights between China and New Zealand have been slow to recover, increasing competitive pressure. However, the dialogue on AI governance between China and the Czech Republic offers a reference path for NZ tech firms to participate in global AI standards-setting. New Zealand, with its early moves in AI ethics legislation, could use multilateral platforms to engage with China and Europe, seeking technology cooperation and export opportunities.
Keywords: Zhao Leji, Czech Republic, Chamber of Deputies Speaker, China-Czech relations, strategic partnership, Markéta Pekarová Adamová, one-China, legislative exchanges, tourism cooperation
Source: Embassy of the People's Republic of China in New Zealand
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