External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday met Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Radoslaw Sikorski, in New Delhi and held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral relations, regional issues, and global developments.
Following the meeting, Jaishankar said the talks provided an opportunity for an open exchange of views on strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.
In a post on X, he said, “Today’s meeting with DPM & FM Radoslaw Sikorski of Poland provided an opportunity for an open conversation on our bilateral ties and global developments. Discussed advancing our economic, technology, defence, mining, people-to-people and multilateral cooperation. Appreciate Poland’s support for stronger India-EU ties.”
Welcoming Sikorski and his delegation, Jaishankar said the discussions were taking place at a time of heightened global uncertainty. “We meet at a time when the world is under considerable churn. As two nations located in different regions, each with its own challenges and opportunities, it is useful to exchange views and perspectives,” he said.
He noted that while bilateral relations had progressed steadily, they required continued engagement. “Our bilateral relationship has progressed steadily but nevertheless needs constant tending,” Jaishankar added.
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Poland in August 2024, Jaishankar said ties between the two countries were elevated to a strategic partnership during that visit. He said both sides would review the Action Plan 2024–28 to realise the full potential of the partnership.
“Today, Deputy Prime Minister, we will review the Action Plan 2024–28 through which we seek to realise the full potential of our strategic partnership,” he said, adding that discussions would focus on trade and investment, defence and security, clean technologies, and digital innovation.
Highlighting economic engagement, Jaishankar said Poland remains among India’s top trading partners in Central Europe. “Our bilateral trade stands at around USD 7 billion, having grown by nearly 200 per cent over the past decade. Indian investments in Poland have crossed USD 3 billion, creating significant employment opportunities. India’s strong economic growth, market size and pro-investment policies offer immense opportunities for Polish businesses,” he said.
Jaishankar also underlined the importance of cultural and people-to-people ties, citing historical links and educational exchanges. “The Maharaja remains a cherished link. I recall meeting Polish youth last year under the Jam Saheb Memorial Youth Exchange Programme. It is heartening to see Indology thriving and yoga gaining popularity in Poland,” he said.
On geopolitical issues, Jaishankar said the two sides would exchange assessments on regional and global developments, including their respective neighbourhoods. Referring to the Ukraine conflict, he reiterated India’s concerns over selective targeting. “I have candidly shared our views on the Ukraine conflict and its implications. I have repeatedly underlined that the selective targeting of India is both unfair and unjustified, and I reiterate that today,” he said.
Raising concerns over terrorism, Jaishankar urged Poland to maintain zero tolerance. “You are no stranger to our region and are familiar with the long-standing challenge of cross-border terrorism. Poland should display zero tolerance for terrorism and not help fuel terrorist infrastructure in our neighbourhood,” he said.
Responding, Sikorski thanked India for the invitation and said he was pleased to attend the Jaipur Literature Festival during his visit. He noted that while he had visited India several times before, this was his first visit since India and Poland established a strategic partnership.
Calling both countries dynamic players in their respective regions, Sikorski said they should explore new avenues of cooperation. He also drew parallels between the historical experiences of the two nations, noting that both had faced colonial rule in the 19th century.
Agreeing with Jaishankar on terrorism, Sikorski said Poland had recently faced acts of sabotage and state-linked terrorism. He also echoed concerns about selective tariff targeting, warning that it could lead to broader global trade disruptions.
Sikorski noted India’s expanding diplomatic presence in Europe, saying it reflected New Delhi’s commitment to deeper engagement with the European Union. He expressed hope that the Polish Prime Minister would visit India in the near future.
(With ANI inputs)
