The year 2018 is a very special year as the Czech people mark 100 years of independence and sovereignty. It is a time for reflection on a centennial of struggle for freedom and democracy as well as celebration of the transatlantic inspiration and friendship, which helped us get to where we are today. The Czech-US relations are stronger than ever before as the Czech Republic and the United States collaborate on security around the world and their economies mutually prosper.
Hence, albeit the Mutual Inspirations Festival annually honors one extraordinary personality, this year’s festival honors all the people who have contributed to 100 years of Czech independence. I remain humbled by the last century’s trials, tribulations, and triumphs and raise my glass to the next one hundred years of democratic independence.
~ Hynek Kmoníček, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to the United States of America