This association is currently the only legally functioning Czech language speaking group in Syria. It includes approximately 120 Syrians who studied at the university in Czechia or Slovakia, and, of course, their Czech spouses. The association was founded in 2018 by a former Member of the People’s Assembly of Syria, Professor Jafar Al-Kheira, who studied at the Brno University of Technology. The purpose of the association is to engage in joint cultural activities, especially those leading to maintaining knowledge of the Czech language and strengthening the relationship with the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The association is based in Latakia, the largest Syrian city on the Mediterranean coast and the fourth largest city in Syria, after Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs. The city has historically had a brisk trade with European countries, with Cyprus being the closest at just 110 kilometers away. 

For decades, the Czech Embassy in Damascus has sought to maintain contacts with the Czech expatriates and graduates of the Czech universities living in Syria and to use their potential, knowledge, and contacts to further deepen relations between Czechia and Syria. These are usually highly educated specialists, often working in senior positions in both the public and private sectors. Mr. Masarik assured Professor Al-Kheir that the Embassy of the Czech Republic is glad to support the cultural, linguistic, and other noble activities of the Association and promised an adequate cooperation from the Embassy’s side.

If you are interested to be in touch with the association, or if you know someone who would like to be invited to the association's events, please write directly to the association's President at jafar.alkheir@gmail.com.