Pakistan and Poland Pledge to Enhance Bilateral Ties

Pakistan and Poland have reaffirmed their dedication to boosting bilateral cooperation across a multitude of sectors. These encompass trade, energy, defense, education, technology, and financial technology.

This commitment was voiced during a joint press briefing in Islamabad by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs Radoslaw Sikorski.

Both parties conveyed contentment with the favorable progression of relations between Pakistan and Poland. They also underscored the importance of further investigating untapped opportunities in diverse industries.

DPM Dar stated, “Our bilateral trade exceeds one billion dollars, and both sides concurred that substantial untapped potential remains to augment trade and economic partnerships. Today, we formalized a memorandum of understanding that envisions consistent bilateral consultations.”

He noted that Poland’s proficiency in oil and gas could greatly assist Pakistan, highlighting that a prominent Polish energy firm has already invested approximately half a billion dollars in the nation.

To formalize discussions, Dar mentioned that the two nations inked two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). One MoU aims to establish routine bilateral consultations between their respective foreign ministries. The second MoU seeks to foster collaboration between think tanks, specifically the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and the Polish Institute of International Affairs.

Dar recalled the long-standing connections between Pakistan and Poland, which date back to World War II when thousands of Polish refugees sought refuge in Karachi and Quetta. He also acknowledged the contributions of Polish pilots and engineers, notably Air Commodore Wladyslaw Turowicz, in the establishment of the Pakistan Air Force.

Dar remarked, “His legacy stands as a testament to the principles of sacrifice, dignity, and honor.” He further added that Pakistan regards Poland as a crucial ally, both bilaterally and within the European Union.

He lauded Poland for its economic advancements, recognizing its evolution into a trillion-dollar economy. He also commended its successful leadership as President of the Council of the European Union earlier in the year.

Dar expressed gratitude to Poland for backing Pakistan’s election to the UN Security Council, which garnered 182 votes.

Dar appealed for Warsaw’s sustained support for the renewal of Pakistan’s GSP Plus status within the EU, set to expire in 2027.

He emphasized, “GSP Plus presents a mutually beneficial arrangement for both Pakistan and the EU, fostering sustainable development, effective governance, and poverty reduction.”

Responding to a query concerning GSP Plus, Dar stated, “We have enacted 27 conventions following our agreement to GSP Plus. Four reviews have already been conducted.”

“The fifth review is approaching rapidly, and we are fully prepared for it. We anticipate Poland’s backing,” he added.

DPM Dar reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance on the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), advocating for its resolution in accordance with UNSC resolutions and the desires of the Kashmiri populace.

He voiced concerns regarding the presence of Fitna-al-Khawarij and Fitna-al-Hindustan militant elements in Afghanistan. He also emphasized the necessity of reinforcing multilateralism and adhering to the UN charter.

FM Sikorski, who also serves as the Polish deputy prime minister, remarked that Poland places significant value on its relationship with Pakistan and aims to deepen economic and strategic collaboration.

He stated Poland’s eagerness to strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, public finance, fintech, water resource management, mining, and the energy sector. He further noted, “Polish firms have been involved in geological services in Pakistan for a considerable period and foresee substantial potential for future partnerships.”

Sikorski highlighted the expanding Pakistani community in Poland, which comprises approximately 2,000 individuals, including a quarter who are students, and recognized them as a vital connection between the two countries.

He stressed that Poland remains receptive to legal migration and genuine students while upholding a strict stance against illegal immigration.

The Polish FM reaffirmed his nation’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states, especially in light of the ongoing Russian incursion into Ukraine.

He stated that Poland champions a comprehensive and enduring peace in Ukraine, grounded in the UN Charter and international law.

Concerning the Middle East, Sikorski reiterated Poland’s endorsement of a two-state resolution to the Palestine-Israel issue and commended recent endeavors to secure the release of hostages and prisoners.

He noted, “Poland has recognized Palestine for many years and maintains that both peoples are entitled to reside in dignity and peace.”

In response to a question, Sikorski mentioned that Pakistan and Poland share a history of collaboration in UN peacekeeping missions and hold similar perspectives on enhancing global peace and stability.

Both leaders restated their commitment to transforming Pakistan-Poland relations into a comprehensive, long-lasting, and mutually advantageous alliance.

Answering a question, Dar stated that alongside the oil and gas sector, the two countries are also contemplating expanding collaboration in other domains, including railways and technology transfer in agriculture, energy, and transportation.