New Delhi witnessed a frank exchange between India and Poland on Monday, January 19, 2026, as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Polish Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Radoslaw Sikorski addressed points of contention regarding regional security and economic policy.
Differing Perspectives on Regional Stability
The discussions revealed diverging views on key regional issues. Mr. Jaishankar expressed India’s expectations that its partners refrain from actions that could “fuel” terrorism in the region, a statement directed at Poland’s recent engagement with Pakistan. This came after Mr. Sikorski’s visit to Pakistan in October 2025, following a conflict between India and Pakistan in May of the same year. Mr. Jaishankar emphasized India’s familiarity with the “longstanding challenge of cross-border terrorism.”
Conversely, Mr. Sikorski voiced concerns over India’s participation in the “Zapad-2025” military exercises alongside Russia and Belarus, characterizing them as “threatening.” Despite these disagreements, both ministers affirmed a shared concern regarding terrorism.
Economic Disagreements and Trade Relations
The conversation also addressed India’s trade with Russia, specifically its oil imports. Mr. Jaishankar criticized what he termed the “selective targeting” of India by the European Union through sanctions, referencing actions taken against Nayara Energy and other Indian companies in July 2025. He stated he had “repeatedly underlined that the selective targeting of India is both unfair and unjustified.”
Mr. Sikorski had previously expressed satisfaction with India’s reduction in Russian oil imports, stating that “principles still matter,” and criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions in Ukraine. These comments, made in both Jaipur and Paris, reportedly drew a response from New Delhi.
Trade and Cooperation
Despite these points of friction, India and Poland have seen a significant increase in trade, growing by 200% over the past decade to reach $7 billion. Both nations are exploring opportunities to expand direct flights, trade, and technological cooperation. The Polish Deputy PM’s visit is part of a series of engagements with European leaders, including the German Chancellor and France’s National Security Adviser, preceding the EU-India Summit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific concerns did India raise regarding Poland’s relationship with Pakistan?
India expressed its expectation that its partners not contribute to “fueling terrorism” in the region, referencing Poland’s recent diplomatic engagement with Pakistan following a period of conflict between the two nations.
What was Poland’s response to India’s participation in the Zapad-2025 military exercises?
Poland viewed India’s participation in the Zapad-2025 exercises with Russia and Belarus as “threatening,” signaling a divergence in security perspectives.
What is the current state of trade relations between India and Poland?
Trade between India and Poland has increased by 200% in the last decade, reaching $7 billion, with both countries seeking to further enhance cooperation in areas like trade, technology, and direct flights.
How will these differing viewpoints impact future diplomatic and economic collaborations between India and Poland?
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