PM Modi's Historic Visit to Poland: Strengthening a 70-Year Partnership

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, Lodz Governor Dorota Ryl highlighted Poland's view of India as a significant business partner. PM Modi’s visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 45 years. The visit aims to discuss collaboration in various sectors and strengthen India-Poland relations.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit, Lodz Governor Dorota Ryl emphasized that Poland views India as a "great partner" for business and other collaborations. In an interview with ANI, Ryl noted that many business delegations from Poland visit India regularly. She underscored that PM Modi's visit is of significant importance to Poland and the region.

Regarding PM Modi's upcoming visit, she stated, "The Prime Minister's visit is of great significance to Poland and the region. We have notable examples, such as Infosys employing over 3,000 people in the region, and more than 200 Indian MSMEs active in various sectors." Deputy Mayor of Lodz, Adam Pustelnik, shared his enthusiasm for PM Modi's visit, stating it holds high expectations for outcomes, including dialogues with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda.

Pustelnik expressed his hopes, adding, "I'm thrilled that Prime Minister Modi will engage in dialogue with our key leaders. It's a unique moment. Instead of setting expectations, I ask what we can do for India to contribute to mutual growth. This visit is one of the most important in recent times, and I have very high hopes for its results." Amit Lath, Vice President of the Indo-Polish Chamber of Commerce, referred to the visit as "historic," as it is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in 45 years, the last being Morarji Desai in 1979.

Lath highlighted the potential for collaboration, stating, "Poland, known as the 'tiger of the economy' in Central Europe, is among the top five economies in Europe. It serves Central, Eastern, and Western Europe effectively. This visit is an important step forward for India and Poland to build a strong partnership. Many areas of collaboration and cooperation will be discussed, benefiting both governments and businesses."

Lath also emphasized the growing trend of Indian vegetarian food in Poland and noted PM Modi's leadership in driving India's rapid growth. He pointed out potential sectors for collaboration, including pharma, agriculture, and the food industry.

PM Modi will be visiting Poland on August 21-22 at the invitation of his Polish counterpart, Donald Tusk. MEA Secretary (West) Tanmaya Lal described this as a "landmark" visit, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

"This visit provides an opportunity for our leaders to review the bilateral relationship, offer guidance on enhancing it, and discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest," Lal added. He also highlighted the long-standing ties between India and Poland, including Poland's assistance in evacuating Indian students from Ukraine in 2022 and the historical refuge provided to Polish women and children during World War II.

PM Modi will hold meetings with his Polish counterpart and the President and will engage with the Indian community. He will be accorded a ceremonial welcome in Warsaw before traveling to Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)