Naveed Miraj & Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: The 105th anniversary of Poland’s Independence Day and Armed Forces Day was celebrated in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, on Tuesday.
The event was attended by Pakistan’s Information Minister, Murtaza Solangi, civil and military officers, diplomats, and media representatives.
Addressing the event held at the Polish embassy, Polish Ambassador Maciej Pisarski highlighted the historical significance of the occasion, stating that freedom and independence are not static gifts but dynamic values that require constant renewal, reaffirmation, and reinvigoration.
He underscored the Polish nation’s profound understanding of the sacrifices often associated with the pursuit of freedom, recognizing the ultimate sacrifice of human life.
Expressing deep concern for the global scenes of death and violence, especially in the Middle East, Ambassador Pisarski extended heartfelt solidarity to those affected by conflicts. He voiced hope for a future where both Palestinians and Israelis can coexist in peace, emphasizing the commitment to protecting civilian lives in accordance with international law.
Last night, we were delighted to celebrate 🇵🇱Independence Day and Armed Forces Day together with representatives of 🇵🇰authorities, diplomatic corps and our partners and friends.
We thank our guests for joining us as well as for their contribution to fostering 🇵🇱 🇵🇰friendship. pic.twitter.com/Kxyn3Xx7Yd— PLinPakistan (@PLinPakistan) November 22, 2023
“We stress that civilian lives must be protected in line with the international law and international humanitarian law”, he said, adding, “We attach to the war in our neighbors policy all the reasons which motivated us to strongly stand with Ukraine from the outset of this brutal aggression are still there.”
The ambassador said that Ukraine is fighting for freedom, dignity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Despite the challenges, Ambassador Pisarski pledged continued solidarity with the Ukrainian people, supporting their aspirations for a European future.
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Poland and Pakistan, the ambassador highlighted the remarkable economic collaboration, with trade approaching $900 million. He commended Pakistani exporters leveraging the European Union’s GSP Plus program and emphasized the potential of Polish investments in exploring tight gas deposits in Pakistan, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars.
Looking toward the future, Ambassador Pisarski outlined new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the water sector, where purification and management technologies can address climate change challenges. He expressed a commitment to projects promoting education, women empowerment, and collaboration with Pakistani non-governmental organizations.
Highlighting successful political and strategic dialogues with Pakistani partners, the ambassador said, “we are promoting what we are Pakistani joint historical heritage. We are excited about the initiative of naming one of the prominent streets in Islamabad to the area after the name of Air Commodore, a revered leader of Polish pilots who came to Pakistan to help create Pakistani Air Forces.”
As the celebrations extend into the Polish Heritage Week in Islamabad, Ambassador Pisarski invited attendees to explore events, including a documentary screening about legendary Pakistani mountaineer Mr. NASIR Sabi, complemented by live performances from talented musicians.
Ambassador Pisarski expressed gratitude to all participants and extended special thanks to Information and Broadcasting Minister Mr. Murtaza Solangi for his positive contribution.
Pakistan’s Minister Congratulates Poland on Independence Day
Addressing the event, Pakistan’s Information Minister Murtaza Solangi congratulated Poland, its people, and the embassy in Islamabad on the auspicious occasion of Poland’s independence. He emphasized the significant importance Pakistan attaches to its relationship with Poland, both bilaterally and within the European Union.
He commended the regular consultations between the two countries, citing their positive impact on fostering cooperation at various levels.
Highlighting the crucial role played by the Polish embassy in Islamabad, Minister Solangi praised the tremendous efforts that have contributed to strengthening the bonds between the two nations. He acknowledged the pride Pakistani people take in the historical role played by Polish pilots in the establishment of the Pakistani Air Force, with special mention of the noteworthy contributions of Air Commodore Togo.
Addressing potential future collaborations, Minister Solangi expressed Pakistan’s interest in expanding cooperation in trade, economics, and investment. Last year’s bilateral trade of $899 million was noted, with a call for concerted efforts to substantially increase these figures. The Minister appreciated the active role of the Polish oil and gas company PGI Energy in Pakistan and encouraged the company to further enhance its operations in the country.
Minister Solangi underscored Pakistan’s attractive investment opportunities in various sectors, highlighting the establishment of a high-level Special Investment Facilitation Council to provide streamlined services to foreign investors. He encouraged Polish investors to explore these opportunities, emphasizing key sectors such as mining, information technology, energy, agriculture, and defense production.
