ISLAMABAD: Dignitaries gathered on Poland’s Independence Day and Armed Forces Day on Tuesday night to honour the journey to sovereignty and the enduring ties between Poland and Pakistan.

The celebration recalled Poland’s rebirth as a sovereign state following World War I, underscoring how independence had always been a cherished yet precarious aspect of Polish history.

In his address, the Polish ambassador, Maciej Pisarski, highlighted his country’s continued solidarity with Ukraine against Russian aggression.

“Ukraine’s victory is essential for a just peace not only in Europe but globally,” he said, adding that Poland had also extended humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza and Lebanon.

He also mentioned about the tragic loss of a Polish aid worker and underlined the risks faced by those providing assistance, he said, adding that “Poland supports a two-state solution in the Middle East and recognises the Palestinian right to an independent state alongside Israel”.

Reflecting Poland’s place in Europe, the event included anthems from Poland, Pakistan, and the European Union. With Poland set to lead the EU Council in 2025, the ambassador underscored the unity needed to confront international challenges.

Guests were informed that Poland and Pakistan continued to deepen their bilateral relations, with trade approaching $1 billion, aided by Pakistan’s trade preferences under the EU’s GSP Plus scheme.

Polish energy companies Orlen and Exalo Drilling had established successful partnerships in Pakistan’s energy sector, particularly in Sindh. Recently, a trade mission under Poland’s GreenEvo programme brought young entrepreneurs to Pakistan, fostering green technology exchanges to combat climate change.

The ambassador also congratulated Pakistan on its new UN Security Council seat, recalling past cooperation on initiatives like the International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief.

He expressed hope for continued collaboration to uphold international law, human rights and self-determination.

Polish-Pakistani relations were rich with history spanning over a century since Polish explorer Bronisaw Grbczewski’s 1888, journey to Pakistan’s Hunza Valley.

Polish mountaineers like Wanda Rutkiewicz and Jerzy Kukuczka, pioneers in high-altitude climbing, had left a lasting legacy on both countries.

“Today, Pakistani climbers such as Nazir Sabir and Sirbaz Khan continue this tradition, with shared achievements creating a unique cultural bond between the nations,” the ambassador said.

To conclude the evening, musicians from Hunza performed, symbolising the cultural bridge between Poland and Pakistan.

The ambassador remarked that like mountains, music transcended boundaries, reminding all present of shared humanity.

Published in Dawn, November 14th, 2024