At the invitation of Prime Minister Donald Tusk of Poland, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an official visit to Poland from August 21-22, 2024. This historic event marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in 45 years and coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The highlight of this visit was the decision by both nations to elevate their bilateral relations to the status of a “Strategic Partnership,” reflecting their mutual commitment to strengthening cooperation in key areas such as defence, security, and trade.
Strengthening the Foundation of India-Poland Relations
During their extensive discussions, Prime Ministers Modi and Tusk reaffirmed the importance of shared democratic values and a rules-based international order as cornerstones of their partnership. Recognizing the significance of their long-standing ties, both leaders agreed to deepen bilateral, regional, and international cooperation to create a more stable, prosperous, and sustainable world.
This new Strategic Partnership between India and Poland is a significant milestone, aiming to unlock the full potential of their relationship. A Joint Statement and an Action Plan for the years 2024-2028 were finalized, setting the stage for enhanced collaboration across various sectors.
Enhancing Defence and Security Cooperation
Defence and security cooperation were pivotal in the discussions between the two leaders. Both sides acknowledged the necessity of deepening their collaboration in these areas, especially in light of the evolving global security environment. The Joint Working Group for Defence Cooperation will be fully utilized to explore opportunities for joint initiatives and defense industry partnerships.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized India’s role as a significant defense partner, highlighting the country’s capabilities in manufacturing and technology. Poland, poised to assume the Presidency of the European Union Council next year, recognized the importance of strengthening its defense ties with India, particularly in the context of broader India-EU relations.
Expanding Trade and Economic Ties
Economic cooperation emerged as another key focus during the visit. India, now the world’s fifth-largest economy, and Poland, the sixth-largest economy within the European Union, acknowledged the vast potential for trade and investment between the two nations. The leaders agreed to fully utilize the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation to explore new areas of collaboration, balance bilateral trade, and expand their trade basket.
Tanmaya Lal, Secretary (West) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs, emphasized the importance of this visit in providing a strong impetus for the India-Poland partnership. “Poland is a very important partner for India in this region,” Lal stated, highlighting the ongoing negotiations for an India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and the establishment of the Trade and Technology Council between India and the EU.
Cooperation in Technology, Energy, and Connectivity
Recognizing the critical role of digitalization in economic and social development, both sides agreed to bolster bilateral cooperation in technology and cybersecurity. The leaders underscored the importance of connectivity between the two countries, welcoming the commencement of direct flight connections and advocating for further expansion to new destinations.
The Action Plan also highlighted cooperation in energy, climate action, and infrastructure development. Both nations recognized the challenges posed by climate change and agreed on the importance of joint efforts in climate initiatives. India encouraged Poland to consider joining the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).
Multilateral Cooperation and Global Peace
In addition to bilateral cooperation, according to the joint statement issued at the end of the visit the two leaders emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration at multilateral forums. They reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order, global peace, and security, especially in the context of ongoing conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.
Both leaders expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and called for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN Charter. They also reiterated their stance against the use of nuclear weapons and stressed the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.
A New Era in India-Poland Relations
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Poland has ushered in a new era in India-Poland relations, marked by the elevation of bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. This partnership is set to enhance cooperation in defense, security, trade, and beyond, reflecting the shared values and interests of both nations. With the foundation laid during this historic visit, India and Poland are poised to achieve greater collaboration and mutual benefits in the years to come.