New Delhi: Poland has responded to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s strong message on terrorism by stating that both countries share a common position in condemning cross border terror and violations of international law. While acknowledging that differences exist on certain regional and strategic matters, Polish leaders underlined that India and Poland are united in their opposition to terrorism in all forms.
The remarks came a day after Jaishankar urged Poland to adopt a zero tolerance approach towards terrorism and cautioned against any actions that could be seen as indirectly supporting terrorist infrastructure in India’s neighbourhood. His comments followed concerns in New Delhi over a reference to Kashmir in a joint statement issued after a recent Poland Pakistan engagement.
Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski said discussions with India on sensitive issues had been open and candid. He noted that both countries face complex regional challenges and difficult neighbourhoods, which often bring security concerns. According to him, while regional perspectives may differ, there is clear alignment when it comes to terrorism.
Sikorski stressed that both India and Poland have suffered from transnational terrorism and therefore strongly oppose any crossing of international borders, whether by military force or by terrorist groups. He added that respect for international law remains a shared principle guiding the foreign policies of both nations.
The Polish leader also acknowledged that Warsaw had raised its own concerns during talks, including India’s participation in certain military exercises involving Russia, which Poland views through the lens of its regional security environment. Despite these differences, he emphasised that the dialogue remained constructive and rooted in mutual respect.
Jaishankar, during his interaction with Polish leaders, also expressed concern over what he described as selective criticism by Western countries, particularly regarding India’s ties with Russia. On this issue, Sikorski agreed that selective or unfair targeting is a matter worth discussing and said both sides had exchanged views frankly.
Sikorski is currently on a three day visit to India, which comes ahead of broader engagement between India and the European Union. During the visit, both sides are reviewing cooperation in areas such as trade, defence, clean technology and digital innovation. The talks also reflect the growing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Warsaw, built on shared interests and continued dialogue despite differing regional viewpoints.
