Prague - The Czech Republic assumed the six-month rotating presidency of the European Union on Thursday, nearly two decades after communism collapsed in the central European country of 10 million.

The second formerly communist nation after Slovenia took over at EU's helm at a time when Europe is facing an economic crisis, Israel is attacking the Gaza Strip and Russia and Ukraine are embroiled in a gas row.

Prime Minister Mirek Topolanek, a close US ally, is to hold the post of EU's president-in-office until July, while President Vaclav Klaus, an outspoken EU critic and a sceptic about global warming, is to have a limited, ceremonial role.

Prague takes over the bloc from France and will hold the position before handing over to Sweden on July 1.

In an acknowledgment of country's size, the Czech leadership said Prague would seek to find common ground rather than to make bold solo steps. (dpa)