The Czech president, Vaclav Havel, has spoken of a new atmosphere of hope after the recent elections in Slovakia where the nationalist government of Vladimir Meciar has been replaced by a cabinet pledging to strengthen democracy.

Mr Havel said he was happy to be back in Bratislava without the tension of previous visits.

After greeting crowds during a walkabout in Bratislava, Mr Havel had dinner with the new Slovak leader, Mikulas Dzurinda.

The Czech president said the new atmosphere should revitalise co-operationg between Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary.

Earlier Mr Havel paid tribute to the former Czechoslovak Communist party leader, Alexander Dubcek, saying many Czech and Slovak politicians could learn from his example.