India Urges Poland for Fairness and Zero Tolerance on Terrorism

Post by : Mina Rahman

India has conveyed serious concerns to Poland, highlighting what it terms as the "selective and unfair targeting" in relation to its trade ties with Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar cautioned Warsaw against any form of support to Pakistan regarding cross-border terrorism.

In a notable discussion with Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski in New Delhi, both officials assessed the rapidly advancing India-Poland Strategic Partnership. The dialogue covered critical regional and global subjects, including trade, investment, defence, security, green technologies, and digital innovation.

Jaishankar pointed out that the discussions took place during a time of significant global upheaval, stressing the need for countries from diverse regions to engage in dialogue. He noted the elevation of India-Poland relations to a strategic partnership in August 2024, mentioning upcoming plans to revisit the Action Plan for 2024-28 aimed at enhancing collaboration.

The conversation transitioned towards geopolitical issues, especially the crisis in Ukraine. Jaishankar reaffirmed India's consistent position shared on international platforms, notably in New York and Paris. He articulated that the selective criticism of India’s independent foreign policy regarding the Ukraine situation is unjustified. India continues to advocate for dialogue and diplomacy rather than adhering to bloc-based opposition.

Cross-border terrorism, a persistent issue for India, also formed part of the discussion. Jaishankar reminded Minister Sikorski of the security challenges faced by India from its neighbors and expressed a desire for Poland to uphold a strict zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. He emphasized that Poland should not give any support to terrorist networks affecting India, indirectly referencing Pakistan.

India has recently increased its diplomatic outreach to European nations regarding Pakistan’s involvement in financing terrorism and aiding extremist groups. The clear message was delivered: while India cherishes its burgeoning partnership with Poland and the EU, it expects resolute and principled stances against terrorism.

Jaishankar’s appeal for Poland's zero tolerance on terrorism is also perceived as a response to Poland’s previous remarks on Kashmir made during its October 2025 visit to Islamabad.

Minister Sikorski recognized India’s apprehensions and concurred that the arbitrary application of tariffs is inequitable and could disrupt global trade significantly. He also shared Poland’s experiences with terrorism, referencing recent incidents, including arson attacks and sabotage on railway lines, underscoring the necessity for international collaboration to combat cross-border terrorism.

This meeting underscores the deepening economic and strategic ties between India and Poland. Poland emerges as one of India’s most significant trading partners in Central Europe, with bilateral trade approaching USD 7 billion and Indian investments surpassing USD 3 billion. Both countries expressed hope that their strategic partnership will thrive while India maintains its firm stance regarding geopolitical challenges and terrorism.