The Czech Republic, located in the heart of Central Europe, shares a common historical and cultural context with many neighboring countries. While diagnostic, research, and treatment capacities for oncological diseases in our country are in several respects ahead of those in parts of the region, the picture across Central and Eastern Europe is diverse. Countries range from high-income to lower-middle-income economies, and these economic differences inevitably influence access to innovative and high-cost cancer therapies. 

 Across the region, dedicated and highly skilled oncologists work under varying conditions, often facing significant resource limitations. By joining forces, we can share proven approaches from countries where certain aspects of oncology care function well, and equally, we can learn from the strengths of others. Colleagues from the more developed parts of Central Europe can help accelerate progress, while every country can contribute valuable expertise in its own areas of strength. Our shared aim is to narrow the gap in oncology care with Western Europe, empower young oncologists with the knowledge and skills to improve care in their home countries, and create conditions that allow them to build their careers without needing to move abroad. 

 We believe Professor Lordick is ideally suited to chair the conference. Born, raised, and educated in western Germany, yet working in the east of the country, he understands the value of bridging regional differences and can relate to the challenges faced by oncologists in varying healthcare settings. 

 By establishing personal contacts and fostering the exchange of experience and ideas, we can contribute to a new level of European integration in oncology. Collaboration with networks such as CECOG and their leadership can further strengthen this effort. 

 The Czech Republic can offer its expertise in the organization and use of a national oncology registry, in biopsy diagnostics, genomic testing, screening programs, and in predicting the need for innovative treatments. At the same time, we recognize our challenges: slow adoption of new medicines due to lengthy approval processes, uneven availability of innovative treatments, gaps in primary prevention regarding risk factors such as obesity, alcohol consumption, and smoking, limited academic research, and low publication activity. 

 If each participating country openly identifies both its strengths and its areas for improvement, we can begin to address them collectively. Learning from the successes of our neighbors offers the most effective path toward improving cancer care for all patients in the region