OKD wants to be the leader in the dialogue on the direction of the region

OSTRAVA – The Association for the Development of the Moravskoslezský region elected a new board at its last meeting. The Chairman is Pavel Bartoš and Ján Fabián, the OKD Director for Strategic Development was elected Vice-chairman.

What are the objectives of the Association? What is its role in the region?

The Association wants to promote the interests of its members and acts as a facilitator in the dialogue on the future direction of Moravskoslezský Region should it be economic development, environment, infrastructure or education. We must realize that we live in a globalised world where we are a part of the European Union, which is a challenge to our competitiveness. It is necessary to unite our efforts not to miss the opportunity to make our region an attractive place to live, with reasonably paid and available jobs, with a wide offer of educational institutions, a developed infrastructure and a good quality environment.

Are other firms in the region also aware of the importance of this Association?

We must not forget that the members of the Association are not only companies. Its active members also include public bodies, educational institutions, not-for-profit organisations and municipalities. The number of members of the Association, which last year went up from 70 to 191, is clear evidence that all these bodies are interested in intense dialogue about and co-ordination of regional activities, in co-operation with the regional administration and Chamber of Commerce of the Moravskoslezský Region.

How important is this membership for OKD?

We are the biggest employer in the region and therefore we just cannot stand aside. On the contrary, we try to become one of the driving forces in the Association. Our approach to addressing the needs of the region can be an inspiration to others in many ways. Just to name a few examples: we try to support technical courses taught at educational institutions, as these are the pillars for the future development of our region. Our OKD Foundation supports the not-for-profit sector and communities in our region in implementing beneficial projects. POP 2010 Programme demonstrated that our company places an emphasis on cutting edge technology, which not only increases productivity but also improves safety at work and the quality of the environment. We have been demonstrating for many years that the transition from active mining to land reclamation can be done for the benefit of the people living in our region. And that is what counts.

Marek Síbrt