In recent days, the Czech Foreign Ministry organised state trips for President Miloš Zeman to both the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). From our point of view, both of these countries hold untapped trading potential. Indeed, a greater footprint by Czech firms could assist in the overall diversification of our exports. The fact that a 40-strong delegation accompanied the president in Jordan is highly pleasing. This team was able to build ties with representatives from 50 Jordanian firms at the CzechJordanian Business Forum held in Amman.

Given the country’s relatively limited domestic production, great potential exists for export to Jordan across many fields.

The small size of the Jordanian market is counteracted by its strategic position in the region as a kind of gateway into the wider Middle East region. Its great stability is a highly important factor in terms of security. As one specific example of the fruits of this visit, the groundwork was laid for the potential future cooperation of Czech suppliers in the construction of the first Jordanian nuclear power plant, as well as in the wider energy sector. Additional opportunities present themselves in the defence industry, spas and health care, agriculture and railway infrastructure.

Meanwhile, in the UAE, President Zeman attended a CzechEmirates Trade Forum. This nation has been experiencing long-term economic growth, and already represents a notable jewel in the Czech export crown - the greatest share of Czech exports to the Middle East go to the UAE. In terms of non-European state rankings, this region is in fourth position.

The visit by the Czech president and his accompanying delegation represented an important step towards a consolidation of economic ties for a number of reasons: for one, it helped to raise the prestige of the Czech Republic in the eyes of Emirates businesspersons and investors; it also facilitated the development of partnerships with personnel in both the state and private sectors. Potential interest in future cooperation was expressed in a number of sectors, including energy, security, defence, food supplies, construction and infrastructure. The occasion was also used to sign a number of business contracts, which itself underscores the potential and success of such efforts. In April 2015, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce will host a Czech-Emirates Investment Forum in Prague attended by a delegation from this emirate.