Polish Envoy Hails Long-Standing and Extensive Friendly Relations between Iran and Poland
TEHRAN (Iran News) The faculty of Law and Political Sciences of University of Tehran on Sunday held a commemoration conference on the occasion of 550 years of political relations between Iran and Poland and many political experts and professors were among the speakers in the event.
Addressing the event, Ambassador of Poland H.E. Maciej Fałkowski hailed this historic relations and called for continuation of this relation.
In his speech Falkowski said he was very pleased to inaugurate this conference on the occasion of the 550th anniversary of relations between Poland and Iran, adding that for any ambassador, experiencing such a moment is like “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and being present at the University of Tehran—one of the most renowned academic institutions in Iran and the entire region—is an honor for him.
He further said: Perhaps the primary domain of diplomacy is not the study and review of enduring history. What we are doing today is focused on the present and the future. Of course, this does not mean that history is useless in improving foreign policy. History affects our understanding of the world. History provides us with a perspective. History explains why countries behaved and acted in certain ways in the past and how social, political, ideological, and cultural variables influenced those choices. Moreover, history highlights the importance of perceptions and—most importantly—misconceptions throughout this process. Finally, the study of history is probably the best cure for any form of determinism. While history illuminates the past, it does not provide a clear path for the future. Paying attention to historical arguments can be a great source of insight, but building the future ahead of us is entirely in our hands. We must remember this.”
Falkowski then added: With that said, let’s take a look at the past five and a half centuries. What do we learn from this long and eventful period? I will focus on three observations, which are entirely subjective.”
He went on to say: First, Poland and Iran had the strongest political relations during their political heydays. These relations date back to the 15th and 16th centuries and also a brief period in the 20th century. Both countries had strong international positions at that time, which were, of course, challenged by their neighbors. Both countries were guarantors of political orders in their respective regions.”
He noted: Secondly, whenever the two countries achieved a powerful position in a stable region, their trade and cultural relations flourished. Cultural fascination sparked academic interests, leading to the establishment of schools and research centers. From the 16th century, Polish diplomatic envoys acted as intermediaries, conveying the consultations and opinions of the kings of Poland and Iran. Letters were exchanged between the kings, leading to political and philosophical dialogues. Merchants established routes through which Iranian carpets, textiles, and weapons reached the homes of contemporary European aristocracy.”
He then highlighted some major events in the history of relations between the two countries and said: “Thirdly, Poland and Iran have had long-standing and extensive friendly relations. This legacy remains and makes us equal partners. From Poland’s perspective, two historical events are noteworthy in this regard.”
Falkowski then pointed to some major historical events in recent centuries in both countries and reiterated that has been one of the two countries that has never recognized the occupation of Poland and this will never be forgotten.
He went on to say: “History proves that Polish-Iranian relations have been a source of strength and a competitive advantage for both countries. History teaches us that countries with similar potential, as long as they share similar values and pursue common goals and objectives, can create effective and mutually beneficial partnerships. History can be a testament to the extraordinary solidarity of human beings. And we must be wisely guided by this shared history. As I mentioned at the beginning of my speech, the future is entirely in our hands. History teaches us much about the nature of people and societies. History unequivocally testifies that following sincere and logical intentions leads to impeccable strategies. As long as we walk on the right path, victory is ours.”
The conference was held in collaboration between Embassy of Poland, Negarestan Andisheh Institute, Iranian Studies Center of University of Tehran, National Library and Archives of Iran, Faculty of Law and Political Science of University of Tehran and Iranian Society of History.
In the event the background and the history of Iranian and Polish Diplomatic Relationship was reviewed and by the way the historical and cultural relations of Poland and Persia will be of the other topics which is on the agenda of the conference.
