Pavel Branda, Deputy Mayor of Ràdlo Municipality in Czechia, presented to European local and regional politicians the "Crystal Valley & Christmas decorations from UNESCO" exhibition, held in the premises of the European Committee of the Regions. The exhibition opened on 14 November and will close on 14 December. 

The exhibition of crystal glass is being hosted by the CoR at the invitation of ECR Member Pavel Branda. It showcases the work of traditional Czech glassmakers from the "Crystal Valley" in the form of an exhibition of 27 sets of glasses, each representing an EU Member State, all designed by Czech glass designers. Another part of the exhibition presents handmade traditional glass pearl Christmas decorations from Poniklá. Τhe exhibition has been organised by the Representation of the Liberec Region to the EU, under the auspices of the Czech Presidency of the EU.

"We are showing how excellent craftsmanship is offered by a small region in the north of the Czech Republic", said Mr Branda. During his presentation, Mr Branda repeatedly highlighted the importance of this framework in preserving national and local heritage.

As Mr Branda also mentioned during his speech to CoR members at the ECON Commission's meeting on 7 December, glass making is a part of local heritage, and thus needs to be preserved and promoted.

The exhibition provides an example of regional craft excellence that can be protected through the new EU framework for geographical indications of industrial and craft products. The new system of geographical indications will strengthen legal protection for products of excellence, help combat counterfeiting, and create and preserve jobs which are crucial for local and regional economies.