Dear colleagues, allow me to sincerely greet you all on behalf of the City of Prague. Indeed, it is a tremendous privilege not only for our capital city but also for our entire country to be a part of the 3rd China (Shanghai) International Technology Fair. China presents an endless source of inspirations for us. Its whole history is marked by world-changing innovations starting with acupuncture, the compass and printing press and ending with one of the most advanced and sophisticated space programs in the world. There is no doubt that whoever aspires to have a say in contemporary global business can no longer stay away from China. I believe that the same applies for individual cities as well. Shanghai and Prague, for instance, can learn from each other in a mutually enriching way. If New York is considered to be the city that never sleeps, Shanghai does not even sit down in this respect. Prague, on the other hand, can off er its unique genius loci, magical atmosphere and warm hospitality. I truly hope that as a result of this fair, more and more Czechs will fi nd their way to visit and, subsequently, do business in China. I also hope that more and more Chinese people will appreciate the characteristic beauty and irresistible charm of the Czech Republic. Or to put it in a rather more metaphorical manner, I hope that the Chinese dragon and Czech lion will continue to support each other as strong, stable and reliable partners. I would like to wish you all the very best of luck in everything you do in order to make it happen.