In a heartfelt expression of sorrow, His Holiness the Dalai Lama extended his condolences to the family of the late Karel Schwarzenberg, a distinguished Czech politician and diplomat. His message, conveyed through a letter to Mrs. Therese Schwarzenberg, widow of the late statesman, was shared on the official website of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Karel Schwarzenberg, known for his significant contributions to Czech politics and his noble European lineage, passed away at the age of 85. His death was confirmed by his long-term political ally, Milroslav Kalousek, and the Foreign Ministry, as reported by ABC News Australia.
His Holiness fondly remembered Schwarzenberg, highlighting their shared moments and Schwarzenberg’s unwavering support. “He lived a full and meaningful life in the service of your country,” the Dalai Lama wrote. He recalled the honor of knowing Schwarzenberg since his tenure as chancellor in President Vaclav Havel’s office and later as the Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic. His Holiness reminisced about a particular instance when he had the privilege of accompanying Schwarzenberg on his plane to Brussels, appreciating his gesture deeply.
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Schwarzenberg’s life was marked by resilience and dedication. Born in Prague in 1937, he and his family fled Czechoslovakia following the Communist takeover in 1948, living in exile in Austria. Despite studying law and forestry, he did not complete his studies, instead taking over the management of his family’s estates in Austria and Bavaria.
His return to Czechoslovakia after the 1989 Velvet Revolution marked the beginning of his significant political journey. He served as the chancellor to President Vaclav Havel and held the position of foreign minister twice, playing a pivotal role in international relations, including the initial agreement to base a U.S. missile shield in Central and Eastern Europe.
In 2009, Schwarzenberg co-founded the conservative political party TOP 09, leading it until 2015 and then becoming its honorary chairman. His political journey also saw him running for the Czech presidency in 2013, where he was defeated by Milos Zeman.
Beyond politics, Schwarzenberg was a human rights advocate, chairing the International Helsinki Federation for Human Rights and establishing the Czechoslovak Documentation Center. His efforts in collecting banned literature and materials related to anti-totalitarian resistance were significant contributions to preserving history and promoting independent thought during the communist regime.
Known for his wit and humor, Schwarzenberg was a beloved figure in Czech politics. His humorous response to being photographed while sleeping, “I sleep when they talk stupid,” is a testament to his charismatic personality.
Schwarzenberg’s legacy is survived by his wife Therese, son Jan Nepomuk, and daughter Anna Karolina. His passing marks the end of an era of a statesman who significantly impacted Czech politics and human rights advocacy. His Holiness the Dalai Lama‘s message of condolence underscores the deep respect and friendship they shared, reflecting the global impact of Schwarzenberg’s life and work.
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