Jitin Prasada Concludes Czech Republic Visit, Pushes India–Czech Economic and Technology Cooperation

Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Shri Jitin Prasada has concluded his official visit to the Czech Republic, marking another step in India’s effort to deepen economic engagement with key European partners. The visit took place from April 22 to 23, 2026, at the invitation of the Czech government, with discussions focused on trade, investment, industrial cooperation and innovation-led partnerships.

During the visit, Shri Prasada held meetings with senior Czech leaders, including Karel Havlíček, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade; Jan Sechter, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade; and Marie Chatardová, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. These meetings reviewed the progress of India–Czech economic ties and explored fresh opportunities in priority sectors where both countries can build stronger business and industrial linkages.

A major highlight of the programme was the 13th Session of the India–Czech Republic Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation, held in Prague on April 23, 2026. Shri Prasada co-chaired the session with Jan Sechter, and both sides examined the wider economic relationship while identifying new areas for cooperation. The two countries also signed the protocol of the 13th India–Czechia JCEC, giving institutional direction to the next phase of collaboration.

The visit also placed strong emphasis on direct industry engagement. Shri Prasada inaugurated the India–Czech Business Forum, where he interacted with Czech industry representatives to promote trade and investment opportunities. The forum was aimed at strengthening business-to-business connections, particularly in sectors where India and the Czech Republic have complementary strengths.

Industrial collaboration formed another important part of the visit. Shri Prasada visited Czech companies in automotive, transport equipment and advanced engineering, including Škoda Transportation in Plzeň. He also met representatives of Škoda Auto and encouraged the company to enhance investment in India’s automobile sector. This is significant because India is expanding as a global manufacturing base, while the Czech Republic has deep capabilities in engineering, mobility systems and high-value industrial production.

The technology dimension of the visit was equally important. Shri Prasada visited the Czech Institute of Informatics, Robotics and Cybernetics in Prague and the ELI Beamlines Laser Facility in Dolní Břežany. These institutions are recognised for advanced research in artificial intelligence, robotics and laser science, areas that are increasingly central to next-generation manufacturing, automation, scientific research and industrial transformation.

The visit also included an interaction with the Indian community in the Czech Republic, reflecting the people-to-people dimension of the relationship. While trade and technology were the main focus, the presence of the Indian diaspora adds another layer to bilateral ties by supporting cultural connection, business networks and long-term goodwill.

Overall, Shri Jitin Prasada’s Czech Republic visit signals India’s intent to build a broader economic bridge with Europe through targeted partnerships in industry, mobility, advanced engineering, research and innovation. With both countries looking to convert political goodwill into practical cooperation, the India–Czech partnership is now being positioned as a platform for industrial growth, investment flows and future-ready technology collaboration.