PM Modi arrives in Poland for 2-day historic visit

New Delhi, Aug 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced his arrival in Poland with a message on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Landed in Poland. Looking forward to the various programs here. This visit will add momentum to the India-Poland friendship and benefit the people of our nations.”

Earlier, before departing from India, Modi shared his enthusiasm for the official visit, saying, “Today, I am embarking on an official visit to the Republic of Poland and Ukraine.

My visit to Poland comes as we mark 70 years of our diplomatic relations. Poland is a key economic partner in Central Europe. Our mutual commitment to democracy and pluralism further reinforces our relationship. I look forward to meeting my friend Prime Minister Donald Tusk and President Andrzej Duda to further advance our partnership. I will also engage with the vibrant Indian community in Poland.”

Prime Minister Modi’s two-day visit to Poland, on August 21 and 22, marks an important milestone as it is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Poland in 45 years since Morarji Desai’s visit in 1979. The visit aims to revitalize and strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two nations, building on a deep and enduring friendship that began with the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1954.

India and Poland have a history of high-level political exchanges and vibrant economic ties. Poland is India’s largest trading and investment partner in Central Europe, with bilateral trade reaching over USD 5.7 billion.

Indian companies have invested more than USD 3 billion in Poland, while Polish investments in India exceed USD 685 million. Key sectors of collaboration include infrastructure, mining, energy, pharmaceuticals, and technology, with both countries keen to explore new avenues for cooperation.

Poland’s manufacturing base and ongoing military modernization have drawn interest from India, particularly in the context of defence and industrial partnerships.

Modi’s visit will also emphasise the historical connections between India and Poland, dating back to World War II when Indian princely states provided refuge to Polish refugees. This shared history is a source of mutual respect and has been commemorated in both countries over the years.

In Warsaw, PM Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk. He will also visit memorials dedicated to the Maharajas of Jamnagar and Kolhapur, who played a crucial role in providing refuge to thousands of Polish refugees during the war.

PM Modi’s visit is expected to open new chapters in their partnership, enhancing collaboration in education, research, and cultural exchanges. The strong tradition of Indology studies in Poland, with Sanskrit being taught at universities since the 19th century, further highlights the cultural affinity between the two countries.

From Poland, PM Modi will travel to Ukraine at the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine. Modi expressed his desire to build upon earlier discussions with President Zelenskyy to strengthen bilateral cooperation and share perspectives on a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Russia - Ukraine conflict. “As a friend and partner, we hope for an early return of peace and stability in the region,” Modi said, confident that the visit would lay the foundation for stronger and more vibrant relations in the years ahead.