At the invitation of the Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an official visit to Poland from August 21-22, 2024. The visit, held to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Poland and India, marked a significant moment in the history of both nations.
During this visit, both leaders acknowledged the strong and longstanding ties between their countries and highlighted the enduring bonds of friendship between their peoples. Recognising the need to unlock the full potential of their bilateral relations, they took a major step forward by elevating the partnership to the status of a “Strategic Partnership.”
The Prime Ministers underscored that shared values, such as democracy, freedom, and adherence to a rules-based international order, form the core of their deepening bilateral relationship. They also reaffirmed their commitment to furthering cooperation at bilateral, regional, and global levels, aiming to contribute to a more stable, prosperous, and sustainable world.
As part of this strengthened partnership, both countries agreed to maintain regular contact between their foreign ministers and offer mutual support in international forums. The leaders also committed to an annual political dialogue at the deputy minister level, which will ensure ongoing assessment of cooperation and address international challenges.
Mutual trade and investment relations are another key element of the new partnership. Poland and India have committed to strengthening cooperation in sectors such as advanced technologies, agriculture, food technologies, energy, green technologies, infrastructure, smart cities, pharmaceuticals, and mining. The goal is to foster sustainable bilateral trade and facilitate economic exchange and investment. Regular meetings of the Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation (JCEC) will play a significant role in this process, while also helping to build supply chain resilience and ensure economic security.
Another important aspect is cooperation on sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies, including the promotion of cleaner energy approaches such as clean coal technologies. As part of this collaboration, both countries will develop advanced mining systems and innovative technologies. Additionally, an agreement is planned for cooperation in the safe and sustainable use of outer space.
The significance of transport and communication in the context of international cooperation was not overlooked. Poland and India decided to develop joint infrastructure projects and expand air connectivity, further enhancing economic and tourism cooperation between the two nations.
During the meeting, the two leaders jointly condemned terrorism in all its forms. They pledged to intensify efforts to combat the financing and support of terrorism, ensuring that no form of support for individuals or groups involved in such activities would be tolerated. Cooperation in cybersecurity was also highlighted, including information sharing, joint legislative and operational actions to prevent cyberattacks, and education and awareness-building initiatives.
Healthcare cooperation was another key focus. Both countries agreed to exchange information and expertise while strengthening contacts between health experts. These efforts aim to improve the healthcare systems in both Poland and India.
Culture and people-to-people ties remain essential elements of the partnership. Both sides committed to supporting artistic, scientific, and linguistic exchanges between cultural institutions and promoting the Student Exchange Program. Cultural events, including festivals celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Poland and India, are planned. Additionally, tourism cooperation, aimed at increasing the flow of tourists between the two countries, will further strengthen people-to-people connections.
In the context of relations with the European Union, Poland and India agreed to support the conclusion of trade and investment negotiations between India and the EU. A key element of this cooperation will be the launch of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC), aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and security. Furthermore, the implementation of the India-EU Connectivity Partnership will help strengthen strategic ties between India and the European Union.
The meeting between the heads of government of Poland and India marks a key moment in the history of their bilateral relations. The strategic partnership agreements signed for 2024-2028 cover a wide range of cooperation, from politics and security to trade, healthcare, and culture, providing a solid foundation for further strengthening and developing these relations on the international stage.
Dawid Szablowski
Head of IHRC Press Department
