26 February 2013 -- The Philippine-Czech Business Council was re-launched on February 21 at the Philippine Embassy Chancery in Prague.
The event was organized by Honorary Consul General Břetislav Skácel in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy.
The event was attended by around 30 guests, consisting of Czech businessmen, representatives from the Czech Ministries of Trade and Finance, Chamber of Commerce and Filipino business owners.
In her welcome remarks, Ambassador Evelyn D. Austria-Garcia underlined the advantages of doing business in the Philippines, notably mentioning the different areas for business opportunities such as renewable energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and transportation. She underscored the favorable credit ratings and economic reports received by the Philippines worldwide. She expressed hope that the Council will facilitate business transactions between the two countries.
The Director of International Relations of the Czech Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Petr Kužel, assured the Czech businessmen of its support and assistance, while Mr. Petr Kulovaný of the Ministry of Trade and Industry shared good memories of his previous business experience in and with the Philippines. He reiterated that the relations between the Philippines and the Czech Republic date back from the friendship between Professor Ferdinand Blumentritt of Litomerice and Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.
Czech Export-Import Bank representative, Mr. Petr Križan, highlighted that the re-launching of the Business Council perceives the Philippines as a “good risk” for Czech business ventures. Honorary Consul General Skácel initiated a lively exchange on the expectations of the Council and the areas of interest by its members.
It is expected that the event will jump-start vibrant relations between and among the business entities of the two countries.
The next meeting of the Philippine-Czech Business Council will be held in Brno, home of the newly established Philippine Honorary Consulate General, where the officers of the Council are expected to be chosen. Honorary Consul General Skácel has expressed pleasure at hosting the next meeting of the Council.
To conclude the event, refreshments of favorite Philippine dishes were offered to the participants. END
