– We have the same sensitivity for Russia's actions. We know what any of the threats on her part mean and we answer them together," said Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, summarizing the gathering with the Norwegian Minister of Defence Toru Sandvik. The agreement signed present opens a fresh phase in bilateral defence cooperation.
Minister of National Defence of Poland Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at a gathering with the Minister of National Defence of Poland Toru Sandvik, photograph by MON
The decision to strengthen cooperation is part of NATO's and the European Union's efforts to strengthen deterrence and to respond jointly to the risks posed by Russia. – We start the day with a very crucial gathering for Poland with the Minister of Defence of the National Kingdom of Norway. We have shared experience, we have shared tasks. We know what these threats mean and we respond to them together," stressed Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamish after a gathering at the Ministry of National Defence.
Norway as an iron ally of Poland
The head of the MON indicated that Norway is “an iron ally who sends his soldiers, pilots and best aircraft F-35to protect Polish sky, Polish airspace and east flank, as well as securing deliveries to Ukraine". “It is besides an iron ally in the field of skills raising,” added Kosiniak-Kamish and stressed that Norway is simply a proven partner, whom we can always number on” and which “will always be able to number on Poland”.
During the talks, issues related to the breach of Polish and European airspace were besides raised. "We are now making concrete decisions under the NATO programme and strengthening the anti-drone defence. Today, this is the main task for the countries of the Alliance and the European Union," the Deputy Prime Minister stressed.
Minister of National Defence of Poland Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz at a gathering with the Minister of National Defence of Poland Toru Sandvik, photograph by MON
The signed agreement is the foundation of further Polish-Norwegian cooperation in the field of defence. The intent of the memorandum is to strengthen regional security, make cooperation between the armies of both countries and strengthen strategic, operational and political relations.
Poland as a key partner in Europe
Minister Tore Sandvik stressed the importance of cooperation between both countries during his next visit to Poland. I have already visited Poland respective times. I met with Norwegian soldiers twice, who defend the Polish sky utilizing F-35 aircraft. The most crucial thing we can do for our safety is to proceed our support for Ukraine. Our cooperation is well understood, including in defence industries," Sandvik said. He besides added that "we should learn a lot about defence against drones from Ukraine, due to the fact that they are the best experts in this area". "We will invest in the capabilities of the Ukrainian manufacture to give them anti-drone capabilities, but we will besides learn from them to safe our borders," he assured.
The Norwegian minister indicated that Poland plays an crucial function in Europe and NATO. – Poland is crucial for defence policy not only due to its geographical location, but besides as a country that makes a immense contribution to European security. Norway and Poland have a common safety interest. Our cooperation will be more crucial in the close future," Sandvik stressed.
New ground in Podkarpacie
Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz announced that on 1 October together with the ministers of Norway and the Baltic States he would open the first modern field in the region for training drone operators. – Together with Norway we are building a place for exercises and training of Polish, Ukrainian, Norwegian and European soldiers. This shows the immense engagement of Norwegian military forces in Poland – he noted.
