Washington, 6 October 1997 (RFE/RL) - Czech President Vaclav Havel Friday warned the United States against isolationism, saying such a policy would be shortsighted.
Havel made the remarks at a ceremony in Washington where he was awarded a prize named for former U.S. Senator William Fulbright for defending democracy and human rights around the world.
In his acceptance remarks, Havel said he would like America to pursue "an ostentatious and non-violent promotion of the spirit of freedom and responsibility."
Havel said isolationism is dangerous and has never protected America. He said the United States must have the strength to intervene with military force in extreme cases to combat evil. He added that the U.S. cannot give up this obligation.
Havel also defended NATO's enlargment, saying that those who oppose its expansion are shortsighted.