22 August,2024 05:06 PM IST | Warsaw | mid-day online correspondent
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi address a press conference in Warsaw, Poland, on Thursday. Pic/AFP
Polish Prime Minister (PM) Donald Tusk on Thursday expressed his belief that India could play a crucial role in resolving the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. He also noted that his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi confirmed his willingness for a peaceful, and rightful end to the war.
During a joint press meeting in Warsaw with PM Modi, Tusk said, "We began with a clarification on very emotional issues. PM Modi confirmed his willingness that he is ready for peaceful, rightful and immediate end to war. We believe that India can play an essential and very constructive role. So, this announcement is very important for us. PM, in 10 hours you will visit Ukraine. We believe that your visit to Ukraine will be historic."
Tusk added that Warsaw looks forward to raising the relationship with India to the level of strategic partnership.
"Today, we have decided to take our relations to the level of strategic partnership. This is not just a definition, not mere words. There is our resolution for mutual cooperation in various areas behind this," he said.
Tusk also spoke about strengthening cooperation in the trade and defence sectors and said, "As far as exchanges between India and Poland are concerned, we discussed various topics. We want to strengthen our cooperation in the area of defence and trade. There are immense mutual possibilities."
He stated that Poland is ready to take part in India's defence modernisation. "We have the necessary technological capability and experts...India is a global leader in the field of Artificial Intelligence and we are using this technology in several areas, including defence. We express gratitude to you for inviting our companies to your country. We want investment in the field of defence and that we cooperate."
PM Modi, who arrived in Poland on Wednesday, is the first Indian leader to visit the Central European country in 45 years. India and Poland are celebrating the 70th anniversary of their strategic ties this year.
Highlighting the importance of PM Modi's visit to Poland, Tusk said, "This is a very important day for both of our countries. It is a great honour for us that we are hosting the Prime Minister of India on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the strategic ties between our countries. This is evidence to the fact that this is visit is highly important..."
He added that despite the geographical and traditional differences between India and Poland, both the countries understand each other well. "Undoubtedly, it is evident that the relations between our two countries are getting even better. This is essential for the entire region. There is no dispute, no struggle between our countries. We understand each other well, despite our geographical differences, different traditions and histories. But history has taught both our countries to respect principles, borders, regional integrity, sovereignty, law of the land."
The Polish PM also congratulated Modi for winning the 18th Lok Sabha elections and said, "The entire world praises India because India's government is very democratic. We don't see much of this in that part of the world. Once again, I would like to congratulate you on your electoral victory. This is very satisfying. I too know that government is elected in your country as per the mandate of the people..."
PM Modi has numerous engagements lined up on Day 2 of his visit to Poland, including talks with President Andrzej Duda, followed by a lunch hosted by his Polish counterpart.
PM will also lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and then meet the business leaders and Polish influencers in Warsaw.
After wrapping up his engagements in Poland, PM Modi will travel to Ukraine on President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's invitation. It will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Ukraine.
(With ANI inputs)
