Hope new Indian government will be even more open to world especially Poland: Polish envoy

Poland's Ambassador to India Professor Adam Burakowski has said that the new Indian government should be even more open to the world especially Europe and Poland. In a candid interview to WION, he spoke about several issues regarding India-Poland ties,trade, terror and how India saved more than 1000 Polish children in World War II.

WION: How do you see India, Poland ties?

Professor Adam Burakowski: The relations between India and Poland are growing. This year in September we will have the historical movement of reopening the direct flight between Delhi and Warsaw. After 25 years, we are reconnecting out capitals. Also, our economic ties are growing. We have reached $3 billion mutual yearly exchange. Indian community in Poland is growing especially the students. We have around 4000 students from India studying in Polish universities.

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WION: How have been the trade ties?

Professor Adam Burakowski: There are still some fields of possible cooperation that have potential. Our IT companies are investing in India. Two leading polish companies are working in India. Also, our other companies have invested in India and reaching new markets. This mutual exchange is growing fast.

WION: Expectations from the new Indian government?

Professor Adam Burakowski: I hope the new government will be even more open to the international world including Europe and Poland. Poland is a member of the European Union for 15 years. The country has a good environment for Indian companies to invest in. If you invest in Poland you will have access to all the European Union market.

WION: Terror has been a major issue. Europe has been a major target for terror networks. How do you plan to deal with the scourge?

Professor Adam Burakowski: Fortunately, Poland hasn't been the target of any terrorist attack in recent years. But we are preparing ourselves and our security forces are aware of the threat. We would like to cooperate with every country that has anti-terrorism on its agenda and India is one of them.

WION: Can you shed some lighton the historic ties between the two countries and how India helped Poland in World War II?

Professor Adam Burakowski: Poland and India both have been always friendly towards each other. In 19th centuries, our countries were occupied by foreign powers so we share a common experience. In World War II India welcomed a big number of Polish refugees in camps. One was in Balachadi near Jamnagar, the local maharaja hosted 1000 polish children. And second was in Valivade, Kolhapur, the Maharaja also contributed in sheltering 5000 polish children in the world war. We established ties in 1954.