On 8 April 2026, the Czech Semiconductor Centre in Brno welcomed a distinguished delegation from the Kingdom of the Netherlands for a working visit focused on innovation, high-tech industries, and the future of Czech–Dutch collaboration in the semiconductor sector.
The Dutch delegation was led by H.E. Ambassador Mina Noor and included Gonneke de Ridder, Deputy Head of Mission; Pavel Iványi, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Brno; and Miroslav Hažer, Senior Economic Advisor. The Czech side was represented by Karel Masařík, Director of the Czech Semiconductor Centre, accompanied by Deputy Director Jana Drbohlavová, Jiří Háze, Stanislav Černý in his role as President of the Czech National Semiconductor Cluster (CNSC), and Jindřich Marek from Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Strengthening the Semiconductor Ecosystem
A central part of the programme was a dedicated discussion on the semiconductor ecosystem in the Czech Republic. The Czech Semiconductor Centre was identified as a natural partner for dialogue, offering insights into national activities, strategic priorities, and existing collaborations with Dutch entities.
During the meeting, the Czech representatives outlined how support for the semiconductor sector is structured in the Czech Republic. Particular emphasis was placed on:
- the crucial role of cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MPO),
- the involvement of the Czech National Semiconductor Cluster in implementing the national semiconductor strategy,
- and the ways in which research and development in the field are actively supported.
Building on Existing Partnerships
Both sides highlighted the importance of strengthening international partnerships, especially with leading global players. The collaboration with ASML, one of the Netherlands’ flagship semiconductor companies and a key “Dutch Chip Champion”, was recognised as a strong foundation for future cooperation.
The Dutch semiconductor landscape—featuring globally significant companies such as ASML, NXP, and Nexperia—demonstrates the Netherlands’ leading position in the global value chain. This makes it a highly relevant partner for the Czech Republic as it continues to develop its own semiconductor capabilities.
Looking Ahead
The visit reaffirmed a shared ambition to deepen cooperation across industry, academia, and public institutions. Both parties expressed a clear interest in intensifying collaboration, exploring new joint opportunities, and aligning efforts to support innovation and resilience in the European semiconductor ecosystem.
The meeting in Brno marks an important step towards a stronger Czech–Dutch partnership in semiconductors—one that builds on complementary strengths and a common vision for technological leadership in Europe.
Photo taken by Kateřina Pala
