Modi and Tusk to Discuss Trade and Defence on October 22
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's visit to India will focus on enhancing trade and defence ties amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
India and Poland aim to double bilateral trade, currently at $6 billion.
Defence cooperation will be a priority, with a focus on safeguarding technology from Russia.
A large business delegation from Poland will engage with Indian CEOs to explore investment opportunities.
On October 22, 2026, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk is set to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss strengthening trade and defence relations, as well as the ongoing war in Ukraine. This meeting marks Tusk's return to India, having previously visited in 2010 and 2017 during his terms as Poland's Prime Minister and President of the European Council, respectively.
The bilateral trade between India and Poland is currently valued at approximately $6 billion, with both nations aiming to double this figure. The anticipated India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), scheduled for signing in December, is expected to significantly boost these trade relations. The Ministry of External Affairs has emphasized that the visit will enhance the India-Poland Strategic Partnership, focusing on various sectors including defence, technology, renewable energy, and cultural exchanges.
Defence cooperation is a key agenda item, with Poland seeking to protect its interests from potential Russian influence. A recent joint working group on defence met in Warsaw to finalize agreements aimed at addressing concerns over technology leaks to Russia. Tusk's delegation includes Finance and Economy Minister Andrzej Domanski and a significant business group, highlighting the importance of economic collaboration.
In addition to trade and defence discussions, Modi and Tusk will address the Ukraine conflict, particularly India's recent diplomatic efforts to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has previously noted that the resolution of the conflict hinges on diplomatic dialogue rather than economic sanctions or trade decisions.
Looking ahead, the FTA is expected to come into effect in 2027, with both countries eager to explore future collaborations that could benefit from reduced tariffs, especially in sectors like food processing. However, certain agricultural exports from Poland, including dairy and meat products, will not be part of the agreement. Tusk and Modi are also slated to meet again later this year during the G-20 Summit in Florida, where Poland has been invited as a special guest.
