Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to make a historic visit to Poland on August 21. Marking the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country since Morarji Desai in 1979. This visit is part of a two-nation tour that will also include Ukraine. The visit aims to renew India-Poland relations, which have remained dormant for decades. The visit is expected to deepen ties between India and Poland, especially in defense and manufacturing.
Reviving Long-Dormant Relations
India and Poland have a long history of diplomatic relations. But their ties have been relatively inactive since the late 1970s. After the fall of Communism, Poland shifted its focus towards building closer relations with the United States. By putting its ties with India on the back burner. Despite this, both countries maintained diplomatic relations but without significant engagement.
India’s appointment of a Defense Attaché to Poland earlier this year, after decades, signals a renewed interest in strengthening bilateral ties. Modi’s visit is seen as a crucial step in taking these relations to a higher level.
Bilateral Talks and Strategic Cooperation
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will hold bilateral talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw. The discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues, with a focus on defense cooperation and manufacturing.
Poland has a robust manufacturing base, and India is keen to explore opportunities for collaboration in this sector. The two countries are also expected to discuss Poland’s ongoing military modernisation efforts, which have positioned it as a key player in European defense.
Honouring Shared History
In addition to bilateral talks, Modi will pay tribute to the shared history between India and Poland. He will visit memorials dedicated to the Maharajas of Jamnagar and Kolhapur, who provided refuge to thousands of Polish refugees during World War II. This gesture is a reminder of the deep-rooted historical connections between the two nations.
Modi will also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the memorial for the Battle of Monte Cassino. Indian and Polish soldiers fought side by side in significant battles during World War II, including Tobruk and Monte Cassino. These visits will underscore the longstanding friendship and shared sacrifices of both nations.
Poland’s Military Modernisation and India’s Interest
Poland is currently undergoing a massive military modernization program, making it one of the key supporters of Ukraine in its ongoing conflict. The country is expected to spend 4.12 percent of its GDP on defense this year, well above NATO’s guideline of 2 percent. Poland’s defense budget has seen a significant increase, growing by 46 percent in real terms between 2022 and 2023. A further 10 percent increase is planned for 2025.
Recently, Poland signed a deal with US defense giant Raytheon to procure 48 Patriot missile launchers, highlighting its commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities. However, Poland has faced challenges in recruiting the desired number of military personnel, affecting its operational capability.
India is keen to learn from Poland’s defense push and its ability to set up effective manufacturing policies. The discussions during Modi’s visit are likely to explore avenues for collaboration in defense production and technology transfer.
Way Forward
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Poland is a significant step in reviving and strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. By focusing on defense cooperation, manufacturing, and honoring shared historical ties, this visit aims to elevate India-Poland relations to new heights. As Poland continues to play a crucial role in European defense, India sees an opportunity to deepen strategic ties with this key European Union member.