Islamabad, (Parliament Times) : The Embassy of Poland in Pakistan marked the 105th anniversary of Poland’s Independence and Armed Forces Day with a ceremony that underscored the enduring diplomatic ties between Poland and Pakistan. Ambassador Maciej Pisarski, reflecting on the 60-year diplomatic journey, highlighted the robust bilateral cooperation, with trade nearing $900 million.
Ambassador Pisarski emphasized the positive impact of Pakistani exporters leveraging the European Union’s GSP plus program, contributing to the upward trajectory in trade. Notably, the Polish Oil and Gas Company, Orlen/PGNIG, invested in exploring tied gas deposits in Pakistan, a move fully supported by the Polish government to ensure indigenous gas benefits Pakistani consumers.
In seeking new avenues of collaboration, Ambassador Pisarski expressed Poland’s interest in partnering with Pakistan in the water sector, focusing on water purification and management technologies to address climate change challenges.
Furthermore, the Ambassador affirmed Poland’s commitment to engaging with Pakistani non-governmental organizations in education and women empowerment projects. He expressed eagerness to continue the political and strategic dialogue, citing successful high-level consultations this year as a source of encouragement.
Excitement resonated as the Ambassador announced an initiative to name a prominent street in Islamabad after Air Commodore Wadystaw Turowicz, a Polish pilot who played a pivotal role in establishing the Pakistani air forces.
Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, and Parliamentary Affairs, Murtaza Solangi, emphasized the need for expanded relations in trade, economic, and investment sectors. Minister Solangi praised the bilateral trade volume reaching $899 million last year and urged concerted efforts to enhance this economic partnership further.
Highlighting recent agreements, including the waiver of visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders, Minister Solangi stressed the importance of people-to-people and cultural ties. He welcomed Polish investors to explore opportunities in mining, information technology, energy, agriculture, and defense production.
Minister Solangi acknowledged the role of Polish pilots in the progress of the Pakistan Air Force, expressing consideration to naming the Barakahu Bypass after Air Commodore Turowicz.
The event also featured a captivating musical concert by Polish musicians, enhancing the celebration of the longstanding friendship between Poland and Pakistan.
In closing, Minister Solangi extended warm congratulations to the government and people of Poland on behalf of Pakistan, emphasizing the strength and depth of bilateral relations. The ceremony, enriched by shared history and future possibilities, exemplifies the continued collaboration between these two nations.
