Klaus: Václav Havel symbolized modern-day Czech state

Prague, Dec 18 (CTK) - First Czech president Vaclav Havel, who died early morning, has become a symbol of the modern Czech state, Czech President Vaclav Klaus told a press conference.

"Vaclav Havel has become a symbol of the modern Czech state," Klaus said.

He said Havel helped the establishment of the new Czechoslovak state by bravely fighting against the communist regime, being the leading figure of the 1989 Velvet Revolution and the first president of the free country.

Klaus said Havel's personality, prestige and work considerably helped the Czech Republic to quickly join the community of democratic countries.

He said he has respected Havel since the 1960s when he got acquainted with him.

Klaus recalled that it was Havel who invited him to join the then forming Civic Forum (OF) umbrella movement in November 1989.

He said he considered his contacts and polemics with Havel in 1990s fruitful.

Havel was Czechoslovak and Czech president 1990-1992 and 1993-2003, respectively. Klaus was Czech prime minister in 1992-1998.

Klaus asked top state officials to arrive at Prague Castle, the presidential seat, to prepare further steps related to Havel's death.

Black flags were hoisted over the Prague Castle Sunday.

As of Monday, 10:00 condolence books will be available for signing at the Prague Castle.

The government will meet on Monday to decide on the declaration of state mourning.