Since the establishment of the formal diplomatic ties in 1995 between the two countries, relations between Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic have been growing in a positive and effective rate on different levels. The volume of trade exchange between both nations is on the rise and it reached an impressive 600 million riyals in 2009. This figure is expected to rise during the next two years to up to two billion riyals. The focus of the economic relations is mainly in industrial equipments, tools, automotive, glass products, and iron ore which were imported from the Czech Republic to Saudi Arabia. Petrochemical products were also exported from Saudi Arabia to the Czech Republic. There is also the presence of a vibrant but limited Czech community employed in a variety of fields in Saudi Arabia. The most important being in the medical sector, namely the rehabilitation and physiotherapy area, which continues an impressive legacy of the Czech Republic, the legacy and reputation of this important field that enabled it to be the center for excellence, expertise and knowledge in this domain. In addition, there are also a growing number of Saudi students enrolled in postgraduate programs in prestigious and reputed Czech universities in the fields of engineering, advanced communications technology, medicine, engineering and law. An important and growing number of visitors from Saudi Arabia visit the Czech Republic for the purpose of tourism, medical treatment and business activities to enjoy the benefits this beautiful country, especially the historical capital city of Prague which is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the city of Karloveyvary, well known for its sulfate water and health resorts. The Czech Republic is one of the most politically and economically stable countries of the European Union, and because of its balanced and economic rationality it has not been affected by the global financial crisis suffered by major global economies. It has maintained its strong currency and there is a good flow of investment from various leading world economies like Germany, Korea, Japan, India and China. Czech industries have a reputation for their high quality precision engineering, strong reliability, exceptional and attractive value, giving it a strong customer base for various products around the world. Its cars have developed an excellent reputation in the British and the Chinese markets amid a lot of fierce competition. Not only are the Czech successful in heavy industries, but it is also known for its legacy in luxury products. It's a leader both in terms of manufacturing quality or designing skills and the huge success of this sector cannot be overlooked. The service and tourism Industry has made the Czech Republic one of the places most attractive and desired places for international tourists wish to visit and experience frequently. The Czech Republic also spawned many humanitarian models such as the noble humanitarian writer Milan Kundera, the author Franz Kafka, classical music composers Antonin Dvorak and Smetana Bdrik and President and writer Havel, known as the Mandela of the Czech Republic. The Czech Republic celebrates its National Day today and they deserve praise, salute and respect for being the center of excellence and an example of a beautiful and friendly country. The writer is a member of the Saudi
