The Czech Ambassador discusses business initiatives in tourism, urban planning, and brewing, as well as a unique project relocating Przewalski’s horses from a Czech zoo to the Kazakh steppes.
Pavol Šepeľák, Astana — Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
Background
Since childhood, I have been fascinated by the history and culture of other countries. Back then, travel was limited to socialist bloc nations, but I was determined to become a diplomat and explore as much of the world as possible. With that goal in mind, I studied foreign languages — French and English — at school. I was also passionate about sports and played ice hockey competitively. If I hadn’t become a diplomat, I might have pursued a professional hockey career. I am married and have two grown children — a daughter and a son.
Diplomatic Career
I have been a diplomat for 42 years, beginning my career at the Czechoslovak Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1983. Following the division of Czechoslovakia, I had the opportunity to choose between Czech and Slovak diplomatic services. Since 1993, I have represented the Czech Republic. Half of my career has been dedicated to multilateral diplomacy, serving in Geneva, New York, and various departments of the Czech MFA. The other half has been focused on bilateral relations, with assignments in Luxembourg, Pakistan, Los Angeles, and Latvia. Today, I serve as Ambassador to Kazakhstan and, concurrently, to Kyrgyzstan.
Perspective on Central Asia
Before my appointment, I had never been to Central Asia. Only recently have I come to appreciate how beautiful and fascinating this region is — with its rich culture, welcoming people, and deep historical roots. What stands out to me is how rapidly these countries have developed since gaining independence, and I am pleased to witness the strengthening of regional cooperation.
I am particularly impressed by the blend of multiculturalism and tradition. Historically, Central Asian nations have been home to diverse populations while remaining deeply connected to their nomadic heritage. I saw this firsthand through local cuisine — this was the first place I ever tried horse meat, despite my daughter’s strong objections due to her lifelong passion for horseback riding.
Building relations in Central Asia
My main mission is to foster strong and diverse ties between our nations and citizens. The Czech Republic has one of the world’s most stable economies and remains a highly developed industrial country. Our expertise in manufacturing and agriculture aligns well with key areas of economic cooperation with Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
The Czech economy relies heavily on exports, and industrial success would not be possible without access to energy and raw materials — an area where our countries' interests converge. We are actively promoting Czech engineering products, including automobiles, aircraft, and industrial equipment, as well as advanced technologies and agricultural solutions like breeding livestock, incubation eggs, and crop seeds. In turn, the Czech Republic imports hydrocarbons and minerals from Kazakhstan, as well as construction materials and agricultural products from Kyrgyzstan.
Beyond trade, we are expanding cultural, scientific, and educational collaborations. More Czechs are discovering Central Asia, and we are pleased that interest in the Czech Republic from Kazakh and Kyrgyz citizens remains strong.
The Embassy regularly organizes specialized business missions in cooperation with Czech government and commercial entities. Key initiatives include:
— Smart Cities — urban planning and public transportation
— Genetics — livestock breeding and fish farming
— Brewing — beer production technologies and raw materials
— Tourism — promotion of inbound tourism to the Czech Republic
— Water Management — sustainable water resource management.
One of the most remarkable projects was the reintroduction of Przewalski’s horses to the Altyn Dala Nature Reserve in June 2024. The Prague Zoo maintains the global studbook for the species, and under a memorandum, at least 40 horses will be relocated to Kazakhstan over the next five years. The first transport was at risk due to severe flooding in the Kostanay region in April 2024, which damaged reserve infrastructure. In response, the Czech MFA provided financial assistance of one million CZK to help restore the affected areas.
Another major achievement was the establishment of the Kazakhstan-Czech International Aquaculture Research Center at Saken Seifullin Agrarian University in Astana. The center focuses on fisheries and aquaculture research, bridging science and practical training for specialists in the field.
In Kyrgyzstan, we are committed to supporting the State Center for Child Development and Family Support in Bishkek. Recently, we funded the installation of an inclusive playground for children with disabilities. This year, the center received a Czech MFA grant for its Early Intervention and Rehabilitation project.
A significant milestone in tourism cooperation was the launch of direct flights between Astana and Prague by SCAT Airlines in spring 2024. This connection benefits not only tourists but also students — currently, over 3000 Kazakh and about 400 Kyrgyz students are enrolled in Czech universities.
Looking ahead
I have several years ahead in this region, and I am full of enthusiasm and new ideas. One of the greatest privileges of my work is discovering local landmarks, cultural nuances, and unique traditions. The stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse geography of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan offer endless opportunities for exploration.
I have also noticed that both countries are truly “all-season” destinations — each season brings its own charm, making my experience here both comfortable and exciting year-round.