Jan
On 29 January 2025, the Czech-Dutch Chamber of Commerce (CDCC) kicked off the new year with an inspiring and well-attended New Year’s Reception. The event, held at the Slovak Embassy in The Hague, brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and diplomats to celebrate existing partnerships and explore fresh opportunities for collaboration. The highlight of the evening was an engaging interview with H.E. Mr. Juraj Podhorský, Ambassador of Slovakia to the Netherlands, conducted by Kateřina Velíšková, Executive Director of CDCC.
Strengthening business ties between Slovakia and the Netherlands
Since assuming his role in January 2024, Ambassador Podhorský has set a clear and proactive agenda, emphasizing the importance of enhancing business relationships between Slovakia and the Netherlands. As he pointed out, the Netherlands holds the position of the third-largest investor in Slovakia, a status he is committed to maintaining and strengthening.
During the conversation, the Ambassador highlighted several key industries in Slovakia that present significant opportunities for Dutch businesses. These include the automotive sector, healthcare, circular economy solutions, smart technologies, digitalization, and automation. He also shared insights into major development projects in the eastern Slovak city of Košice and its surrounding areas, which could be particularly attractive for Dutch companies looking to expand or invest in Slovakia.
A shared commitment to business growth
Reflecting on the discussion, Kateřina Velíšková remarked: “Slovakia offers many appealing business opportunities to Dutch companies. The Chamber is proud to be able to connect entrepreneurs from both countries and support their efforts to establish and grow their business collaborations.”
The insightful exchange between Ambassador Podhorský and Ms. Velíšková underscored the Chamber’s ongoing mission: to serve as a bridge between the Dutch and Slovak business communities, helping companies navigate new markets and seize promising ventures.
A toast to a prosperous 2025
Following the interview, Ambassador Podhorský and Kateřina Velíšková raised their glasses in a celebratory toast, joined by all attendees, wishing for a successful, happy, and healthy new year. As the evening unfolded, guests enjoyed lively discussions, expanded their professional networks, and exchanged ideas that could lead to exciting projects in 2025.
With a spirit of optimism and collaboration, the CDCC’s New Year’s Reception once again proved to be an inspiring start to the year, setting the stage for further strengthening economic ties and fostering innovation between the Dutch, Czech, and Slovak business communities.
