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Poland, India eye strategic partnership during PM Modi's historic visit

22.08.2024 08:30
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in Warsaw marks a historic occasion, as he is the first Indian prime minister to visit Poland in 45 years and the first since the fall of communist rule in the central European country.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.Photo: Prime Minister's Office (GODL-India), GODL-India , via Wikimedia Commons

Poland is seeking to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership with India, encompassing political, business, scientific and cultural contacts, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Władysław Teofil Bartoszewski.

The partnership aims to mirror those Poland has with South Korea, Japan and China, addressing a wide range of interactions from diplomacy to technology, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

Modi's visit, which commenced on Wednesday afternoon, coincides with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Poland and India, marking a milestone in the long-standing relationship.

Modi will meet with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda on Thursday.

Bartoszewski highlighted the evolution of Poland's global stance, noting its current ranking as the world's 21st largest economy, while India ranks fifth. He underscored the mutual recognition of economic potential.

The talks between the two nations are set to cover a wide array of sectors including agriculture, information technology, security, and eco-friendly technologies, with a particular focus on India’s advancements in the space industry.

Bartoszewski also revealed plans to expand tourism and direct flights to India by Poland's national carrier, LOT.

In a broader context, Bartoszewski discussed Poland's efforts to explain its perspective on the war in Ukraine to India, emphasizing the colonial nature of the conflict and drawing parallels with India’s own history as a former colony.

Modi’s visit signifies a deepening of political and economic ties and holds international significance.

Following his engagements in Poland, Modi is scheduled to visit Kyiv, where he will meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The last Indian prime minister to visit Poland was Morarji Desai 45 years ago.

(rt/gs)

Source: PAP