The event commenced with welcoming remarks from Mrs. Sarit Fishbane, Director of the International Relations Division at FICC, and Mr. Alexei Podgur, Business Development Executive at FICC. Both speakers highlighted the importance of bilateral trade relations and the immense potential for growth across various sectors.

Following the introductions, participating companies had the opportunity to introduce themselves, setting the stage for meaningful networking and collaboration.

Insightful Presentations on Czech-Israeli Relations

Mr. Assaf Dovrat, CEO of the Israel-Czech Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCCI), delivered a comprehensive overview of Czech-Israeli relations, emphasizing the flourishing diplomatic connections and the need for deeper business collaboration. He outlined how ICCCI can support businesses in both countries and shared success stories of past partnerships. Mr. Dovrat also highlighted the strong working relationship between ICCCI and the Czech Embassy, reinforcing their joint commitment to boosting commercial cooperation.

Mr. Milan Slanec, Czech Commercial Counsellor in Israel, provided an overview of Czechia’s economic landscape, key industries, and trade potential with Israel. He highlighted Czechia’s stable and diversified economy, strong export performance, and abundant opportunities for business collaboration. Mr. Slanec reaffirmed Czechia’s dedication to enhancing commercial links with Israel, noting the longstanding political friendship and continued support for Israel.

Mrs. Magdaléna Orlovičová, Czech Defence Industry Cooperation Counsellor in Israel, focused on defence sector collaboration. She introduced Czech state-owned defence enterprises, as well as leading private companies, including smaller yet innovative firms offering cutting-edge solutions. Mrs. Orlovičová emphasized the need for Israeli companies seeking access to the EU market, especially government contracts, to partner locally. She positioned Czechia as the ideal partner, citing its long tradition in defence production, skilled engineers, and advanced manufacturing capabilities. Czechia, she noted, can provide full-cycle solutions from development to production while maintaining high-quality standards.

The discussions that followed were highly productive, fostering valuable new connections. The event laid a solid foundation for future cooperation. With Israel’s dynamic innovation ecosystem and Czechia’s industrial expertise, there is tremendous potential for mutually beneficial cooperation, and we are eager to collaborate and turn this potential into a reality.