2024-09-18 15:07 update: 2024-09-25, 15:11
Photo: PAP/Marcin Obara
The speaker of the Sejm, the lower house of parliament, has said that it is essential for Poland to maintain strong security relations with Turkey, despite existing differences.
Szymon Holownia is set to embark on a three-day trip to Turkey, where he will meet with President Recep Erdogan, Speaker of the Grand National Assembly Numan Kurtulmus, and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.
During a press briefing, he pointed out that the talks in Turkey would occur at the highest political echelons, marking the first such meetings involving a representative from the new Polish government coalition.
Holownia noted that security would be a primary focus of the discussions.
"Turkey is a member of NATO, and while we may have differing political approaches at times, it is crucial to keep each other informed of our positions," he commented. "Turkey maintains an open dialogue with Russia, whereas we do not engage with Russia directly; however, our communication with Turkey does not imply that we are conversing with Russia."
"Turkey plays a vital role in a highly volatile region of the world," he added. "Its extensive experience in conflicts beyond its borders has led to a well-developed defence industry."
He also expressed his intention to discuss "the potential for collaboration between the Polish defence industry and opportunities for the Turkish defence sector in Poland."
Holownia emphasised that he was travelling to Turkey in full consultation with the Polish ministries of foreign affairs and defence.
He noted that if the flood situation in Poland requires it, he would be prepared to return to the country "at a moment’s notice."
The last meeting between the heads of the Polish and Turkish parliaments took place in 2016, while President Andrzej Duda's visit to Turkey was in 2021.
"It is important to note that in the Turkish political system, the president also serves as the prime minister, making this visit and these discussions truly significant and long-awaited," Holownia remarked. (PAP)
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