Slovakia success story

Lajcak: ‘Since 1999, we have enjoyed the highest GDP growth in the European Union and we believe we are a very attractive place to do business.’

MY only visit to Czechoslovakia was a brief one. Three days in the autumn of 1987 in what was a Soviet satellite state.

There were some beautiful structures and pleasant countryside but I don’t think I am wrong in saying the mood of the people was sullen and bleak. I also recall that some of the best tennis players in the world at that time were from that country, but all seemed to be defecting to the United States. I also bought a beautifully made Petrof piano which occupies pride of place in my hall today.