What stood out to you about this year’s Meeting Brno festival?
I consider myself a Czechoslovak. I come from the heart of Slovakia, from the picturesque village of Heľpa. Today, I live and work in Prague, and our holding ECO – INVESTMENT operates in both the Czech Republic and Slovakia. That’s why I was truly delighted that the 2023 edition of Meeting Brno focused primarily on the relationship between Czechs and Slovaks, 30 years after the peaceful split of Czechoslovakia. The discussion between Czech President Petr Pavel and Slovak President Zuzana Čaputová, held in the garden of Villa Tugendhat, was a beautiful reflection of the special bond between our two nations. Attending this event was both a great experience and a real honor for me.
What value do you see in creating partnerships with cultural events such as Meeting Brno?
What could connect us more beautifully, meaningfully, and clearly than culture itself? Czechs and Slovaks have shared a cultural closeness for generations. At our Hybernia Theatre in the heart of Prague, we constantly present Czech-Slovak cooperation to audiences. Our acting, dance, and music ensembles include both Czechs and Slovaks, and all are truly outstanding. Together, they create beautiful works—amazing musicals—and I’m incredibly proud of that. The brotherly bond between our nations has never been broken in the realm of culture. And I’m glad we can contribute to keeping it alive, at least in a small way.
How does partnering with Meeting Brno reflect your company’s values?
As I mentioned earlier, it’s about maintaining and supporting Czech-Slovak mutuality and cooperation. That’s also what our company culture is about: respect for values, traditions, collaboration, and helping one another.
Meeting Brno is, above all, about encounters. Was there a meeting during the festival that brought you particular joy?
Every single one of them. I won’t name anyone in particular, because each meeting was enriching and created something unforgettable—not just for me, but I believe for all of us who were there.
