On 20 January, the President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, conferred the Order of Brilliant Star with Special Grand Cordon upon Markéta Pekarová Adamová, the former Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to fostering friendship between Taiwan and the Czech Republic.
During her tenure, Adamová served as the President of the EPP-member party TOP 09 from 2019 to 2025 and as the President of the Chamber of Deputies from 2021 to 2025.
President Lai acknowledged her significant perseverance in leading a 160-person delegation to Taiwan three years ago, despite facing considerable external challenges. This visit marked a pivotal moment in advancing bilateral relations. He further highlighted her commitment to advocating for cross-strait peace on international platforms and her instrumental role in facilitating an exhibition at the National Palace Museum in the Czech Republic.
The President emphasised the deepening collaboration between Taiwan and the Czech Republic across sectors such as trade, investment, technology, and aviation, underscoring the substantial economic potential of their partnership. Additionally, he commended Adamová’s recent publication, “Made of Neither Sugar nor Iron,” released in October, where she articulates a vital message: democratic nations will not allow Taiwan to confront its challenges in isolation.
In her remarks, former Speaker Adamová expressed her sincere gratitude for this prestigious honour. She reaffirmed her belief that Taiwan deserves to exist in security, dignity, and prosperity while shaping its own future.
