Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently in Poland for high-level security and trade discussions before proceeding to Ukraine, which is engaged in a conflict with Russia, a key strategic partner of India.
During his visit to Warsaw, Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Poland's Prime Minister and President to primarily address security concerns, particularly in the region bordering Ukraine. The visit follows criticism from Ukraine over Modi's recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where Modi refrained from condemning Russia and instead advocated for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine.
Poland's deputy prime minister and defense minister expressed optimism about enhancing cooperation with India in various sectors, including new technologies. Modi emphasized the significance of Poland as India's primary economic partner in Central Europe.
The visit coincides with the 70th anniversary of official bilateral relations between India and Poland, marking 45 years since the last visit by an Indian government leader to the country. Bilateral trade between the two nations has seen a significant increase from $1.95 billion in 2013 to $5.72 billion in 2023, with India's exports constituting a major portion.
Modi is also set to pay tribute at two monuments in Warsaw commemorating joint efforts during World War II, including the assistance provided by the 'Good Maharaja' Jam Sahib of Nawanagar to Polish children evacuated to India during the war. Additionally, Modi plans to meet with the Indian community in Poland.
Following his visit to Poland, Modi will travel to Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This visit comes after Zelenskyy criticized Modi's recent visit to Moscow and expressed disappointment over Modi's meeting with Putin amidst escalating tensions in Ukraine.
India has refrained from condemning Russia's actions in Ukraine and has instead called for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy between Russia and Ukraine.
