New Delhi: Piotr Anoni Świtalski, the Polish Ambassador to India, praised the Indian community in Poland, calling them a “model immigrant community.” He noted that they integrate well, earn a good income, and contribute positively by paying taxes.
In a conversation at ThePrint’s office, Świtalski emphasized that Indians living in Poland can truly feel at home. Currently, there are nearly 30,000 Indian citizens residing in Poland, making them the third-largest immigrant group after Ukrainians and Belarusians.
The ambassador’s comments come amid Poland’s stricter immigration policies due to concerns about national security. He explained that countries like Belarus and Russia are exploiting migration as a tactic, which has led to the tragic loss of lives, including that of a young Polish soldier, and the need for a substantial border wall.
Education Opportunities in Poland
Speaking about educational prospects, Świtalski mentioned that language won’t be a significant hurdle for Indian students, as many are proficient in English. He pointed out that while some foreign students face challenges due to a lack of language skills, Indian students generally do not have similar issues.
He expressed that Poland is an welcoming place for those who abide by the rules. Additionally, he mentioned the interest of Indian tech and consulting companies in Poland, which is actively trying to attract expertise in these fields.
Indian restaurants have also become vital cultural hubs, according to Świtalski. He remarked that they play a key role in enhancing cultural ties between India and Poland.
Indian Business Presence in Poland
Świtalski highlighted that many large Indian companies are establishing themselves in Poland, viewing it as a strategic gateway to other European markets like Germany and France. He noted Poland’s competitive labor costs, along with its reputation for being one of the safest places in the European Union.
He added that Poland boasts modern infrastructure, particularly in communication technology, making it an attractive place for Indian businesses. The ambassador also underscored the importance of air connectivity, stating that there are direct daily flights between Delhi and Warsaw, with around 160,000 passengers traveling this route each year.
In conclusion, Świtalski believes that strengthening relations between India and Poland could open up numerous opportunities, positioning Poland as an important entry point for Indians into Europe.
