In a stunning revelation, Poland’s Deputy Foreign Minister Władysław Bartoszewski has credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with preventing a potential nuclear catastrophe in Ukraine. Speaking exclusively to IANS in New Delhi on February 6, Bartoszewski praised Modi’s pivotal role in global diplomacy, stating that the Indian leader directly intervened to dissuade Russian President Vladimir Putin from deploying tactical nuclear devices late in 2022.
Bartoszewski highlighted the strong bilateral ties between Poland and India, noting, ‘We have very good relations with India, and we recognize India’s role in the world.’ He elaborated on Modi’s conversation with Putin, describing it as a ‘positive role’ that underscores India’s constructive influence in international affairs.
Reflecting on PM Modi’s historic 2024 visit to Poland—the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 45 years—Bartoszewski recalled the signing of a strategic partnership agreement. ‘It was a very good visit,’ he said, adding that recent discussions in the foreign ministry covered military cooperation, digital industry ties, security issues, high-tech IT investments, space collaboration, and more practical steps forward.
On India’s booming economy, the minister remarked, ‘India is now the fourth largest economy by GDP, and PM Modi has made it clear that the goal is to become the third largest very soon. With 1.5 billion people, it’s an advanced market that no one can ignore.’
Addressing the India-US trade deal, Bartoszewski argued that any deal is better than none, as lower tariffs ultimately benefit consumers. ‘Tariffs are usually paid by the consumer in the end,’ he noted, welcoming the significant tariff reductions in the agreement.
This comes amid high-level meetings in New Delhi, where India’s Foreign Secretary for the West, Sibi George, reviewed the bilateral strategic partnership and the 2024-2028 action plan with Bartoszewski. The exchanges signal deepening ties as both nations navigate global challenges.