The event was opened by short excerpts from piano compositions by famous 19th century Czech composers Antonín Dvořák and Zdeněk Fibich, rendered by the Czech-born pianist Nataša al-Radi, and a selection of chansons performed by the Czech artistic duo Irena Kristeková (vocals) and Zdeněk Dočekal (piano). This was followed by a speech of the Czech Ambassador Jan Vyčítal, who – in the atmospherics of the concluded musical performance – called for a joint effort to exploit the opportunity of the victorious military struggle against the ISIL movement for the building of a new Iraq based on peaceful coexistence and mutual “listening”. He expressed hope that the developing Czech-Iraqi bilateral cooperation will be enriched by an expanded aspect of scientific, academic and cultural cooperation. He presented a bouquet of flowers to Mrs. al-Radi. The audience was moved by  her life story, as summarized by the Ambassador: she came to live in Iraq after her wedding more than 50 years ago and remained in the country throughout all the challenges of the country’s history. The Ambassador also thanked the sponsors of the event, including the Tatra automobile company (which celebrates its 120^th anniversary this year), the Aero Vodochody aeronautical company, and the Iraqi Marjan Travel & Tourism Company.

On behalf of the host country, a congratulatory address was given by H.E. Mr. Manhal al-Safi, Director of the Department of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iraq, who appreciated the Czech Republic's partnership with Iraq and its contribution to the struggle against ISIL.

The event also featured an exposition of Czech commercial glass products, as well as an exhibition of photos from war-time Mosul (2015-2016) by Czech photographical reporter Jarmila Štuková.