Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Poland, the first by an Indian leader in 45 years, signifies a pivotal moment in India-Poland relations. Occurring amid significant global geopolitical shifts, particularly the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, this visit highlights a strategic recalibration of India’s foreign policy in Europe. 

India and Poland have enjoyed diplomatic relations since 1954, built on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a commitment to a rules-based international order. Though often overshadowed by India’s ties with larger European nations, the relationship with Poland has gained momentum in recent years. Notable visits, such as Indian President Pratibha Patil’s trip to Poland in 2009 and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s visit to India in 2010, laid the foundation for a more robust partnership. These interactions focused on areas like technology, defence, and cultural exchange, setting the stage for deeper engagement.

Modi’s visit to Poland marks a new chapter in India-Poland relations, aligning with India’s broader strategic goals in Central Europe. Poland, a key member of both NATO and the European Union, has emerged as a significant player in the region, particularly in its strong support for Ukraine during the ongoing conflict. This visit signals India’s intent to engage more deeply with Central Europe, recognising Poland’s strategic importance as a front-line state in the conflict.

During the visit, Modi was warmly received by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and both leaders held talks with an emphasis on enhancing cooperation, particularly in technology, trade, and defence. These developments mark a new phase in the relationship, emphasizing the importance of defence and security cooperation. With India’s ongoing efforts to modernise its armed forces and reduce its dependence on Russian defence supplies, Poland’s expertise in modernising Soviet-era military equipment presents a valuable opportunity for collaboration. The reopening of the defence wing at India’s embassy in Warsaw further highlights the significance of this partnership in the current geopolitical landscape.

Economic Cooperation: A Pathway to Mutual Growth

Economic cooperation was a key focus of Modi’s visit, reflecting the growing importance of trade and investment in the bilateral relationship. Over the past decade, trade between India and Poland has grown significantly, rising from US$1.95 billion in 2013 to $5.72 billion in 2023. This impressive growth underscores the potential for further collaboration in sectors such as technology, agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.

Modi’s call for Polish companies to participate in India’s “Make in India” and “Make for the World” initiatives aims to foster industrial collaboration and drive mutual growth. Poland’s expertise in areas like food processing, water treatment, and urban infrastructure makes it a valuable partner for India. Collaborations in clean coal technology, green hydrogen, and renewable energy are particularly noteworthy, as they align with global sustainability goals and offer new avenues for economic growth. These partnerships not only contribute to the economic prosperity of both nations but also position them as key players in the global transition towards a more sustainable future.

Strategic Partnership: Enhancing Defence and Security Cooperation

The elevation of India-Poland relations to a “Strategic Partnership” during Modi’s visit signifies deepening defence and security cooperation between the two countries. Both nations emphasised the need to bolster and expand cooperation in defence, agreeing to utilise existing frameworks such as the Joint Working Group for Defence Cooperation. Poland’s expertise in modernising Soviet-era military equipment, especially tanks, offers India valuable opportunities to enhance its defence capabilities. Discussions also addressed cyber-security and counter-terrorism, highlighting shared security challenges and the need for close collaboration. This partnership reflects India’s strategic shift to diversify its defence ties and reduce reliance on traditional allies like Russia, aiming to balance its stance on the Ukraine conflict through peaceful resolution and diplomacy.

Cultural and Educational Ties: Strengthening People-to-People Connections

Cultural exchange has long been a cornerstone of India-Poland relations, with both nations sharing a rich history of artistic and academic interactions. Modi’s visit provided an opportunity to further strengthen these ties through educational collaborations and people-to-people exchanges.

Poland’s long-standing tradition of Indology and Sanskrit studies, coupled with its deep interest in Indian civilisation, has deepened cultural bonds between the two countries. Modi’s visit to the Maharaja of Kolhapur’s memorial in Poland highlighted these enduring connections. Additionally, the Jam Saheb Nawanagar Youth Action Program, which facilitates visits to India for young Polish students, is a significant step towards nurturing these ties and fostering mutual understanding.

Educational collaboration, such as student exchange programs and joint research projects, offer immense potential for both countries. By enhancing academic ties, India and Poland can promote knowledge sharing and cultural appreciation, thereby strengthening their bilateral relationship.

India’s Position in Europe Amid the Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Modi’s visit to Poland also reflects India’s evolving role in Europe amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict. India’s stance on the conflict has been characterized by careful diplomacy, balancing its historic ties with Russia with its growing partnerships in Europe.

India’s neutrality on the conflict, while advocating for dialogue, has been met with mixed reactions. Ukraine, in particular, has expressed disappointment over India’s engagement with Russia, especially following Modi’s recent visit to Moscow. However, India’s approach is rooted in its strategic interests and its desire to maintain a multi-polar world order. Modi’s visit to Poland, followed by a planned visit to Kyiv, underscores this approach, as India seeks to balance its relationships while promoting peace and stability.

The Road Ahead

As India and Poland celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, Modi’s visit marks the beginning of a new chapter in their partnership. The elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, the signing of key agreements, and the focus on defence, economic, and cultural cooperation point towards a more robust relationship in the years to come.

For India, deepening ties with Poland offers a gateway to Central Europe, a region of growing strategic importance. For Poland, India represents a valuable partner in diversifying its defence partnerships and enhancing economic ties with Asia’s largest democracy. As the global order continues to shift, the India-Poland partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, resilience, and shared vision in navigating an increasingly complex world.

 Dr Ashok Sharma is a Visiting Fellow at UNSW Canberra at the Australian Defence Force Academy. Dr Sharma is also an Academic Fellow at the Australia-India Institute, the University of Melbourne. 

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