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Biden to focus on security in talks with Polish leaders: spokesman

12.03.2024 11:30
During his talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk at the White House on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden will focus on security issues, including NATO and Ukraine, while avoiding Poland's internal political and constitutional controversies, a spokesman has said.
Polish President Andrzej Duda (right) and Prime Minister Donald Tusk (left).
Polish President Andrzej Duda (right) and Prime Minister Donald Tusk (left).Photo: PAP/Radek Pietruszka

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told public broadcaster Polish Radio that Tuesday's talks are not intended to address the domestic political scene in Poland.

"We don’t involve ourselves in domestic politics in any country, whether they’re friend or foe," Kirby said.

Instead, the meeting aims to reinforce the bilateral ties between the United States and Poland and celebrate the 25th anniversary of Poland's NATO membership, he added.

Kirby highlighted the unique nature of inviting both the president and prime minister of Poland to the White House, especially given their opposing political affiliations, public broadcaster Polish Radio’s IAR news agency reported.

He also told Polish Radio that under Biden's leadership, NATO has grown "bigger, more relevant, stronger than it’s ever been before."

A central theme of Biden's message to the Polish leadership is gratitude for Poland's unwavering support for Ukraine amid its conflict, its significant role within NATO, and the hospitality it has shown towards Ukrainian refugees, according to Kirby.

"Poland has been for a long time, and certainly over the course of these last two years, a very strong partner and friend, and, of course, a very valuable ally in the Alliance," Kirby said.

He also lauded Poland's contributions to the Ukrainian armed forces and the hosting of US troops, which has been crucial for coordinating security support for Ukraine.

"Poland has just been vital, critical," Kirby added. "The big message that the President’s going to send is ‘thank you.’” 

🔴 𝗧𝗬𝗟𝗞𝗢 𝗨 𝗡𝗔𝗦 | 💬🇵🇱🇺🇲 Rzecznik Rady Bezpieczeństwa Narodowego Białego Domu John #Kirby: @JoeBiden podziękuje dziś Polsce za pomoc Ukrainie i sojusz w #NATO.

🎙️mat. @Marekwalkuski /Polskie Radio pic.twitter.com/2wiDJz66Hz

Tuesday's White House meeting is not just a diplomatic formality but a celebration of the partnership between the United States and Poland; it also marks a quarter-century of Poland's contributions to NATO, officials have said.

(jh/gs)

Source: Polskie Radio, IAR