On April 1st, 2026, a special SCRC stakeholder seminar was held for the French delegation from L’Ihédate. The SCRC was represented by Dr. Eliška Tomalová and Prof. Jiří Blažek.

Dr. Tomalová formally opened the event and provided an introduction to the activities and mission of SCRC. In the first part of the program, Prof. Blažek delivered a comprehensive presentation focused on regional development and regional policy in Czechia, including current challenges and opportunities, as well as the conceptual and research framework for understanding regional development. He also addressed the application of the European smart specialisation strategy in Czechia.

The second part of the seminar featured a presentation by Gabriela Bauerová, Director of the Investment Development Department at CzechInvest, who provided an overview of the Czech economy, high-tech exports by sector, and outlined services available to potential investors, including current investment opportunities.

The seminar was marked by a lively discussion, with numerous questions raised by participants. Overall, the event was highly successful and contributed to the establishment of new mutual contacts and the strengthening of professional ties!

All photos are courtesy of Kateřina Hrubá, the PR Coordinator of the Institute of International Studies at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University.