PRAGUE, Nov 12 - Karel Schwarzenberg, a prominent figure in Czech politics and former Foreign Minister, passed away at the age of 85, officials confirmed on Sunday. Schwarzenberg, known for his role in the country's post-Communist era, was a celebrated advocate for European integration.

Born into a respected Czech family, Schwarzenberg became a key aide to Vaclav Havel, the former dissident who won the Czech Republic's first free election in 1990. He later served as the country's foreign minister for two terms between 2007 and 2013.

Schwarzenberg, hailed as a "patriot and true European" by the Vaclav Havel Library, which he co-founded, passed away on Saturday. Czech media had reported that he had been transported to a hospital in Vienna last week.

Miroslav Kalousek, the founder of the TOP09 party which Schwarzenberg led, expressed his grief in a social media post, calling him "one of the most important and kindest people" in his life. Kalousek also urged the Czech Republic to be forever grateful for Schwarzenberg's selfless contributions to the country.

Suffering exile for a significant period of his life, Schwarzenberg's family was among the major targets of the Communists who came into power following a coup in 1948. Their extensive property, including chateaux, forests, and land primarily near Austria, was confiscated.

During his exile in Austria, Schwarzenberg took charge of his family's estate and supported the anti-communist human rights movement. He also sponsored a library of banned Czech literature.

Following the peaceful Velvet Revolution in 1989, which brought an end to Communist rule in Czechoslovakia, Schwarzenberg returned to the country and became Havel's chief of staff. His return brought great happiness to him, as he stated, "You don't know the happiness a person has when he can be home again."

Recognizing the fragility of freedom, democracy, and the position of the Czech Republic in Europe and the world, Schwarzenberg worked tirelessly to secure a better future for the country.

Austria's Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg lauded Schwarzenberg's unwavering dedication to democracy and the European idea, describing him as a true Central European.

In 2004, Schwarzenberg became a senator and later played a key role in the establishment of the TOP09 party, which is currently a junior member in the centre-right government coalition.

Despite his political achievements, Schwarzenberg's bid for the presidency in 2013 was unsuccessful, as he lost to Milos Zeman, another notable figure in Czech politics.

The passing of Karel Schwarzenberg marks the end of an era in Czech politics. His legacy as a champion for European integration and his unwavering commitment to his country will be remembered by many.