As the Czech Republic takes on presidency of the European Union, the economy, energy and Europe are singled out as top priorities. Peter Valert and Radoslava Kotrasova report

The Czech Republic holds its first European Union (EU) presidency in the first half of 2009. Due to the ongoing global financial crisis, planned European Parliament elections and new European Commission appointment, this period is being seen by many as a very important one. With motto ‘A Europe without Barriers’ and key priorities being the three Es (economy, energy and Europe) in the world, the Czech Republic aims to contribute to an economically strong and cohesive EU without internal boundaries, building on its values and roots and able to address complex global issues and challenges.