Spokesman: Czech Centres could close as result of budget cuts

Czech Centres could be shut down as a result of cost cutting at the Foreign Ministry, which funds the network of offices dedicated to promoting the Czech Republic and its culture in various cities around the world. The Czech Centres have been told their budget will be slashed by at least 10 percent next year, and the network is making plans based on a projected budget of CZK 80 million. However, the final figure could be lower, said spokesman Jiří Rosencranz. He said more Centres could go the way of the one in Dresden, which was closed earlier this year, adding that salaries might also be cut. There are currently 24 Czech Centres in 21 countries.