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20 January 2026|The Hindu
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International RelationsNEWS

India, Poland Diplomats Clash Over Pakistan, Russia Relations

India and Poland's Foreign Ministers publicly disagree on relations with Pakistan and Russia.

Background Context

The relationship between India and Poland has evolved significantly since its formal establishment in 1954. During the Cold War, India maintained a non-aligned stance, while Poland was part of the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact. Despite differing political ideologies, economic and cultural ties were fostered. A crucial turning point was Poland's support for India during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Post-Cold War, with Poland's transition to democracy and its subsequent accession to the European Union in 2004, the relationship has deepened, focusing on trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Poland has also been supportive of India's aspirations for a greater role in international forums. However, historical differences in geopolitical alignment and perspectives on regional security issues continue to shape the nuances of their interactions.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski publicly aired their differences regarding relations with Pakistan and Russia during talks in New Delhi on Monday, 20 January 2026. Jaishankar conveyed India's expectation that partners should not support terrorism, referencing Poland's renewed ties with Pakistan, particularly after Sikorski's visit in October 2025. He also criticized the European Union's sanctions on India's trade and oil imports from Russia as “selective targeting”. Sikorski acknowledged the frank conversation, noting Poland's concerns about India's participation in the “Zapad-2025” military exercises in Russia and Belarus, which Poland views as “threatening”. Jaishankar addressed the issue of India’s imports of Russian oil, defending it against criticism.

Key Facts

1

Disagreement: India-Poland relations with Pakistan and Russia

2

Jaishankar: Criticized Poland's ties with Pakistan

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Sikorski: Concerned about India's participation in Zapad-2025

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Jaishankar: Defended India's Russian oil imports

Latest Developments

In recent years, India-Poland relations have seen increased cooperation in sectors like renewable energy, defense, and IT. Poland views India as a key partner in its 'Go India' strategy, aimed at boosting economic ties with Asian countries. However, divergences persist on issues such as trade barriers and visa regulations. Looking ahead, both countries are exploring avenues for enhanced collaboration in areas like cybersecurity and space technology. Poland's strategic location within the EU makes it a valuable partner for India in accessing the European market. The evolving geopolitical landscape, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, is likely to further influence the dynamics of India-Poland relations, potentially leading to closer alignment on certain issues while exacerbating differences on others.

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