We gather this evening to mark the National Day of the Republic of Poland, and to review the deep and longstanding relations that exist between our countries.
Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1971, our two countries have signed a number of agreements in various sectors, in health care, education, cultural and scientific cooperation, taxation, economic cooperation, and air services, among others. Collectively, they have laid the foundations for the warm relations that we enjoy today.
The figures illustrating the extent of our trade relationship are a testament to this healthy relationship, with a steady flow of goods and services between the two sides. At the same time, one has to point out that there exists a strong untapped potential to further expand bilateral trade and investment, particularly in the field of fintech, financial services, advanced electronics, logistics, and connectivity.
Tourism is contributing to this positive trend. Over the past few years, we have witnessed a remarkable increase in Polish tourists, making the Polish market the third largest for Malta and the fastest growing one.
Furthermore, the number of Polish students choosing Malta to pursue English language studies reflects the strength of our educational links. In parallel, more Maltese students are opting to undertake their Erasmus+ exchanges in Poland.
The direct flights linking Malta to eight Polish cities are making a substantial contribution to these positive developments across various sectors. Preserving and further improving this level of connectivity should deepen our ties in the years ahead.
In the same vein, the twinning agreements that exist between Maltese and Polish towns also play their part in fostering closer ties between our citizens and our communities.
I am also pleased to note the initiatives in the cultural sector. In this regard, we welcome Poland’s participation at the 2026 Malta Arts Biennale with the Polish national Pavilion, as well as participation at thematic level by the Omena Art Foundation. I take this opportunity to congratulate ‘Omena Art Foundation’ on being awarded the Best Pavilion Award at said Biennale.
Ladies and gentlemen
The bond between our countries has been further reinforced through our shared membership of the European Union, which we both joined together 22 years ago, on 1 May 2004. This historic step reflected a common aspiration to belong to a peaceful and democratic Europe, founded on the values of freedom, equality, and solidarity.
At this critical juncture, marred by regional tensions and international uncertainty, a united and resilient EU remains more important than ever, guided by international law and multilateral cooperation.
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as well as continuing instability in the Middle East and the wider Gulf region underline how developments in our neighbourhood have direct consequences for European security and prosperity.
Poland has lived this reality first hand, with a war unfolding just across its border, with Poland providing a home and security to many Ukrainians forced to leave their homes.
Besides traditional conflicts, European unity is also indispensable in addressing other contemporary issues: from climate change and energy security to, terrorism and hybrid threats. In these areas, Europe’s capacity to act depends on cooperation and shared responsibility. Pushing towards this common goal will be essential if we are to address such challenges in an effective and lasting manner.
On this note, I also want to acknowledge Poland’s role in championing this spirit of European unity and responsibility during its successful Presidency of the Council of the EU in the first half of 2025.
We are determined to further strengthen our ties and look forward to close cooperation with Poland within the European Union, the United Nations, and other international fora.
Ladies and gentlemen
I thank the Polish Embassy in Malta for hosting us this evening. Malta looks ahead with optimism to continue strengthening the bonds between our two countries.
On behalf of the people of Malta, I raise a toast to the good health and success of His Excellency Karol Nawrocki, President of the Republic of Poland, and to the enduring friendship between our nations and our peoples.