Islamabad (TDI): Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Radosław Sikorski, delivered a lecture at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), reflecting on Poland’s remarkable transformation and its lessons for emerging economies.
The event, titled “Poland’s Success Story: A Message for the Rising Countries,” was organized by the Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at ISSI in collaboration with the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM).
Recalling his early visits to Pakistan nearly four decades ago, Sikorski spoke warmly about the enduring friendship between the two countries and Pakistan’s significant role during the Afghan resistance against Soviet occupation. He acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices during that period, noting that Poland “remembers the price Pakistan paid.”
Outlining Poland’s journey from a post-communist economy to one of Europe’s most dynamic states, Sikorski attributed his country’s success to difficult but decisive reforms, institutional modernization, and a stable international environment. He shared that since 1989, Poland’s GDP per capita has increased more than threefold, and the country’s economic transformation has been both geographically and socially balanced.
Read More: Pakistan-Poland Ties: Sikorski’s Visit Opens Doors to New Collaborations
He added that Poland’s experience can serve as inspiration for medium-sized states striving to achieve sustainable growth and global relevance.
Sikorski also reflected on the broader geopolitical context, noting that the world stands at a crossroads amid increasing polarization and challenges to international law. He called for renewed commitment to a ‘rules-based international order’ grounded in sovereignty, dialogue, and multilateral cooperation.
Touching upon Poland’s stance on global crises, he reaffirmed Poland’s support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the two-state solution, as well as its continued support and assistance to Ukraine ‘in the face of Russian aggression.’
Read More: PM Shehbaz Invites Polish Firms to Invest in Key Sectors
On bilateral relations, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized the growing economic and trade partnership between Poland and Pakistan, which recently surpassed $1 billion in annual volume. He highlighted the presence of the Polish oil and gas company ORLEN in Pakistan for nearly three decades as a symbol of enduring cooperation and pointed to new opportunities in energy, mining, water management, food processing, and Fintech.
He reaffirmed that Poland stands ready to share its developmental experience and technological expertise with Pakistan, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable industry.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
