ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Poland to Pakistan Piotr Opalinski has said that Poland values its historical links with Pakistan and enjoys the multifaceted collaboration with which the two countries are significantly developing their political, economic and defence cooperation.
Talking in an exclusive interview, the Polish ambassador said that relations between Pakistan and Poland are “excellent and very cordial”. He pointed out both at the ongoing political dialogue as well as enhancement of economic cooperation, especially in the areas of energy and exploration of natural resources, in which Polish companies have been engaged in Pakistan since last 20 years.
He said that Poland’s vast expertise and long tradition in coal mining, defence production, agriculture and food processing offered new opportunities for the mutually beneficial cooperation in these areas as well.
The ambassador said that Poland supported the inclusion of Pakistan in the GSP Plus by the European Union (EU) to grant non-reciprocal preferential treatment to Pakistan’s exports.
He emphasised that the geographical location of Poland in the exact centre of Europe made it very suitable to become a hub for Pakistani products designed for the European market. The bilateral trade volume in 2018 rose to about 500 million Euros.
The trade balance is in favour of Pakistani exports, mainly textiles with a relatively smaller share of leather products, sportswear, foodstuff and surgical instruments.
Talking about the regional and international situation, the ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s role in the Afghan peace process and its efforts in facilitating the talks between the US leadership and the Taliban.
Poland wholeheartedly supports the peaceful resolution of the protracted conflict in Afghanistan, to the benefit, stability and development of the whole region.
