Should Poland Stand Against Terrorism in Our Neighborhood? EAM Jaishankar Voices Concerns
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- EAM Jaishankar emphasized zero tolerance for terrorism.
- The relationship between India and Poland requires continuous effort.
- India's position on the Ukraine conflict is unfairly targeted.
- Bilateral trade between India and Poland is about $7 billion.
- Action plan for 2024-28 aims to enhance cooperation.
New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) Addressing the issues of cross-border terrorism that India confronts, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar urged Poland to adopt a stance of absolute intolerance towards terrorism and refrain from supporting the terrorist framework in India's surrounding areas.
While opening discussions with Polish Deputy Prime Minister Radoslaw Sikorski in New Delhi, EAM Jaishankar emphasized that although the relationship between India and Poland has evolved positively, it requires ongoing attention.
"Deputy Prime Minister, you are well-acquainted with our region and the persistent challenges of cross-border terrorism. I look forward to hearing about your recent visits to the area. Poland must exhibit zero tolerance for terrorism and avoid assisting the terrorist infrastructure in our vicinity," he remarked.
He reiterated India's position on the Ukraine conflict, labeling the selective targeting of New Delhi as both unjust and unwarranted.
EAM Jaishankar pointed out that he and Sikorski are convening at a time of significant global unrest, highlighting the importance of sharing insights, given that India and Poland, despite being in distinct regions, face their own unique challenges and opportunities.
"Our discussions today will naturally encompass both regional and global matters, particularly the need for mutual assessments regarding our respective neighborhoods. You have publicly addressed this during your visit as well," he mentioned.
"Recently, during my speeches in New York last September and Paris this January, I candidly expressed our views on the Ukraine conflict and its ramifications. I have consistently emphasized that the selective targeting of India is both unfair and unjustified. I reiterate that today," the EAM continued.
Commending the bilateral relationship, EAM Jaishankar remarked, "Our relationship has progressed steadily, yet it requires continuous effort. India and Poland have historically shared warm and amicable ties, recently characterized by high-level political interactions and vibrant economic and people-to-people connections," referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Poland in August 2024, which elevated their ties to a strategic partnership.
EAM Jaishankar noted that Poland stands as one of India's major trading partners in Central Europe, with bilateral trade amounting to approximately $7 billion. He added that Indian investments in Poland have exceeded $3 billion, generating numerous job opportunities for Polish citizens.
"Today, Deputy Prime Minister, we will review the action plan for 2024-28 aimed at unlocking the full potential of our strategic partnership. We will also explore avenues to advance our cooperation in trade and investment, defence and security technologies, and digital innovation," he stated.