Bavarian premier says Sudeten German Congress offers reconciliation

Bavarian Premier Markus Söder said the upcoming Sudeten German Congress in Brno is intended as “an offer of reconciliation” with Czechs, adding that this year’s gathering carries special significance as it will be held in the Czech Republic for the first time.

Speaking after a Bavarian government meeting on Tuesday, Söder said that Czech-Sudeten German relations have improved so much in recent years that the Czech national anthem has been played at the congress and Czech politicians have addressed participants.

The Bavarian premier said he regretted the radical criticism the event has faced in the Czech Republic.

The Sudeten German Congress will take place in Brno from May 22 to 25 as part of the Meeting Brno festival, whose organizers invited the Sudeten German association to the city.