It is an honour and privilege for me to address you on three very important events for Poland: the 214th anniversary of the proclamation of May 3 Constitution- our national day, Poland's 1st anniversary of EU membership - 1st May and the 60th anniversary on May 8th of ending World War-II. Polish Constitution May 3rd is the second oldest, after the American, and the first Law on Government on the European continent. It was so well drafted thoroughly and constantly regulated the state system. Poles started to elaborate modern codes of civil conduct and all Polish patriotic movements identified themselves with its ideas. It was a reminder of the road to freedom, which was constantly fought for by the nation. From the time Poland's political and economic transformation in 1989, May 3rd is a National Holiday and the ideas of May 3rd Constitution are implemented in practice.
On the May 1st 2004, with the historical enlargement of the EU by 10 countries, including Poland, the European continent has taken a giant step toward unity. The idea of forming the European Union was the most successful project in the history of Europe. After enlargement Europe has never been so prosperous, so secure nor so free. European countries committed to dealing peacefully with disputes and to co-operating through common institutions. Successive enlargements are making a reality of the vision of a united and peaceful continent. With the latest enlargement, there has arisen a single entity of 25 states with over 450 million people producing a quarter of the world's Gross National
Product, and with a wide range of instruments at its disposal. The European Union will inevitably become a global player.
Poland has profited from its EU membership. The first year of membership brought Poland high economic growth and increase in exports. Poland exerted an influence on the EU's foreign policy. Poland was among the countries which adjusted their legal systems to the EU system most efficiently. The country proved well prepared for tapping EU structural funds. The enlargement was a good thing. We Poles are very happy that the enlarged EU works, that we were able to reach agreement. Now the best sign of this would be the adoption by all member states of the EU Constitutional treaty.
On 8th May 2005 Poland and countries that were on the Allied side mark the 60th anniversary of ending World War-II.
We are proud that the people of our nation and our allies made a decisive contribution to achieving victory and saving the peoples not just of Europe, but of the entire world from fascist enslavement. We all have a debt to all those who died for the freedom and independence of our homeland, who together with anti Hitler coalition destroyed fascism and contributed to the liberation of many peoples.
I have the highest regards and best wishes for Pakistan and Pakistanis people.
Pakistan is on the track of prosperity and development as well as on the path of sustainable growth. Financial and structural reforms of Pakistan had enhanced the role of the private sector, and restored the confidence of both domestic and international investors, it is, therefore, up to the business communities to take advantage of the opportunities that are offered.
Poland is a medium sized European country with a population of slightly more than 38 million and has big economic potential. GDP growth in 2004 was 5.4 percent Poland is also a paradise for foreign investors due to the following factors:
Pakistan is a very important partner to Poland in South East Asia. Poland is deeply interested in further developing and enhancing relations with Pakistan in all fields. Poland and Pakistan have a tradition of more than 43 years of co-operation. Unfortunately our potential in developing economic and trade relations has not been fully explored and utilised. Pakistan has huge resources and a skilled and entrepreneurial, talented people. For us Pakistan is a responsible and trustworthy partner not only in trade but also for regional and international peace and security. This fact is borne by the progressive leadership of Pakistan. Pakistan plays an important role both in Muslim world and in providing regional and global security and stability. We highly appreciate Pakistani people and government for their support in the war of terror.
In my slightly more than one year stay in Karachi I am impressed with the structural economic reforms of the Government of Pakistan, practical macroeconomic policies, financial discipline which have transformed Pakistan in stable, fast growing economy. The Pakistan economy in last few years is growing very fast, achieving in 2004 growth of GDP over 6,4% making the country very attractive for investment.
I am very happy that trade between our countries has the tendency to increase. In 2004 turnover in trade between Poland and Pakistan was $100,1 million. Pakistan exported $65,8 million goods to Poland while Poland exported $34.3 million to Pakistan. In the last year turnover in trade between our countries increased 82 %. We wish to increase this turnover in trade between our countries, manifold.
The biggest sectors in Pakistani export are textiles (cotton fabrics, cotton yarn, clothes, bedding, towels), chemical fibber, leather products, vegetable products and corn (rice), plastics, toys, sports products, medical and veterinary instruments. Poland exported to Pakistan chemicals, machines, cast iron and steel, wood pulp and cardboard, fertiliser newsprint, machinery engines, rolling bearings, oil seeds, milk powder.
To boost trade and economic relations between Poland and Pakistan the Consulate in Karachi is making available information on business opportunities in Poland and a database of 50000 Polish firms offering products and services.
On behalf of the Consulate General of Poland in Karachi on this auspicious occasion I wish to extend to the government and the friendly, generous, hospitable people of Pakistan the warmest greetings and best wishes. I also want cordially thank all that they have done for me and our consulate during my 14 months work in the attractive city of Karachi. Pakistan - Poland Co-operation Zindabad
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