Events 2007

Visit to ChemBio Unit in Liberec

Visit to ChemBio Unit Highlights Ambassador Graber 's Visit to the Liberec  Region

August 27, 2007

During an August 23 trip to the Liberec region, Ambassador Richard Graber visited the 31st CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) Defense Brigade; the Liberec -based unit is among the best of the Czech Army. Highly experienced in the field of chemical, nuclear and biological defense, the unit has distinguished itself in various foreign missions, from Desert Storm in the early 1990s to the current NATO operations in the Balkans and Afghanistan.

After the CBRN visit, the Ambassador met Liberec governor Mr. Petr Skokan and other representatives of the region. They discussed common issues and themes over lunch , including regional budgetary constraints, privatization of district hospitals and hosting FIS Nordic Ski World Championship in February 2009.  After lunch, the Ambassador visited the new Liberec City Library, often called the "building of reconciliation , " because it recalls good relations between the Czechs, Germans and Jews before the Second World War.

The second part of the Ambassador's trip led to the Frydlant area, which offers beautiful nature and several architectural jewels, including the Frydlant chateau. The Ambassador and the local mayor discussed the revitalization of local communities and encouragement of civic society. This meeting was followed by a visit to the Karel Velebny International Jazz Workshop, which takes place every summer in Frydlant and which has gained an excellent reputation over the years. Three of the lectors were supported by U.S. Embassy in Prague.