Poland supports India’s fight against terrorism and its right to pursue terrorists wherever they operate, Polish envoy Piotr Antoni Switalski said on Thursday. He said Poland understands the threat posed by terrorism because it has also been a victim of terrorist attacks.
Speaking to reporters after an event in New Delhi, Switalski said Poland was “on India’s side” on the issue of terrorism. He also referred to terrorist attacks in India, including those in Kashmir, while stressing that Poland supports India’s right to take action against terrorists.
The envoy also addressed reports that Polish-made drones were used during Operation Sindoor. He said both Indian and Pakistani sources had reported the use of Polish drones, adding that some may have been used as decoys or training drones. He expressed surprise at attempts to link Poland directly to the conflict and suggested that such claims could be influenced by external agendas.
Beyond security cooperation, Switalski highlighted the growing strategic relationship between India and Poland. He described India as an “effective partner” and said both countries could work together to promote stability and predictability at a time of global uncertainty.
He also pointed to opportunities for greater defence cooperation, noting that Poland is spending billions of euros on military procurement and considers India an attractive partner because of its advanced capabilities and large-scale defence production.
The envoy highlighted the strong historical and cultural links between the two nations. He recalled the role of Maharaja Jam Sahib of Nawanagar, Sir Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja, who sheltered Polish children displaced during World War II. Known in Poland as the “Good Maharaja”, his humanitarian contribution remains an important symbol of India-Poland friendship.
Switalski also mentioned the Polish refugee settlement at Valivade near Kolhapur, where around 5,000 Polish refugees found shelter between 1942 and 1948. The settlement developed into a small Polish community with schools, a church and other facilities. A museum is now nearing completion to preserve the history of the refugees and their connection with India.
On economic cooperation, the envoy said Poland wants to expand partnerships with India in areas such as agriculture, defence and other industries. He described Poland as a potential gateway for Indian companies seeking access to the European Union market.
Switalski also emphasised the cultural similarities between India and Poland, including connections between Polish and Sanskrit vocabulary. He said the two countries may be geographically distant but share historical and cultural links that bring them closer.
He concluded that stronger cooperation between India and Poland could contribute to greater stability and send a positive message to the wider world.
