The event, which brought together more than 300 participants from Poland, Germany and the Czech Republic, once again confirmed the importance of cross-border cooperation for the sustainable development of the region. Organized by Karkonoska Agencja Rozwoju Regionalnego S.A., in cooperation with TGZ Bautzen and Hochschule Zittau/Görlitz and with the support of the Self-Government of the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, the Forum aimed to promote energy efficiency, exchange experience and establish new business contacts.
The Forum was held under the honorary patronage of Lower Silesian Voivodeship Marshal Paweł Gancarz, the Saxon Minister of Economic Affairs, Labour and Transport, the Liberec Region, the Hradec Králové Region, the Pardubice Region, the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Prague, the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Berlin, the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Warsaw and the Consulate General of Germany in Wrocław.
Opening and key discussion topics
The Forum began with an official opening, during which representatives of regional authorities and invited guests from Germany and the Czech Republic spoke. In their addresses, they emphasized the importance of joint efforts to promote economic and environmental development in the Three-Country Region.
During the meeting, two discussion panels were held, in which experts from various sectors discussed key challenges related to energy efficiency and sustainable development. The first panel focused on the role of local governments in promoting innovative energy solutions and regional development. Panel participants pointed to the need for local authorities to engage in projects that could contribute to the region's energy transition.
The second panel focused on the challenges faced by companies in the Three-Country Region. The discussion addressed the opportunities offered by the energy transition and the support businesses can obtain to improve energy efficiency.
Presentation of the German Center for Astrophysics in Görlitz
One of the items on the program was a presentation of the German Center for Astrophysics in Görlitz, delivered by Professor Jürgen Besold, Head of the Innovation and Transfer Center. This innovative project could become a stimulus for scientific and technological development. The professor also discussed the potential benefits of cross-border cooperation in this field.
B2B Cooperation Exchange – 400 business meetings
The discussion sessions were followed by a B2B Cooperation Exchange, which attracted considerable interest. Participants had the opportunity to speak directly with potential business partners, resulting in as many as 400 B2B meetings. It was an excellent opportunity to establish new contacts and develop international cooperation. Many participants emphasized that these meetings are a key element of the Forum, enabling the exchange of experience and the creation of new business opportunities.
Information stands and networking
Throughout the day, participants could visit information stands where institutions supporting business development and cross-border cooperation presented their offerings. It was also an excellent opportunity to speak with experts and obtain advice on available funds, programs and solutions supporting the energy transition.
Summary
The Polish-German-Czech Business Cooperation Forum proved successful both in terms of attendance and substantive content. Participants unanimously highlighted the value of such events, which not only enable the exchange of experience but also help build long-term business relationships.
The event was carried out as part of the “Green Future of the Borderland” project, co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund under the Interreg Poland-Saxony Cooperation Programme 2021–2027.
