The Czech Republic has said tackling the economic crisis will be one of its main priorities throughout its EU presidency.

A work programme outlining the government's plans for the next six months confirmed that the country has placed the current financial turmoil high up on its agenda.

The eastern European nation said it wants to help stimulate economic growth across Europe in order to prevent the crisis from getting worse.

"Only an economically strong and cohesive EU without internal barriers will be able to address complex global issues and establish its position in today's world," it commented.

The Czech Republic added that this can be achieved if member states build on their collective values and roots.

This comes after Petr Kuzel, president of the Czech Economic Chamber, stated that the country's EU presidency will help boost its international image.

Speaking to the told the Prague Daily Monitor, he said the nation will be more widely seen as an advanced and economically stable market.