The Republic of Poland is a Central European country and member of the European Union and NATO, among others. Poland wields considerable influence in Central and Eastern Europe and is a middle power in international affairs. The foreign policy of Poland is based on four basic commitments: to Atlantic co-operation, to European integration, to international development and to international law. The Polish economy is fairly open and relies strongly on international trade. Since the collapse of communism and its re-establishment as a democratic nation, Poland has extended its responsibilities and position in European and Western affairs, supporting and establishing friendly foreign relations with both the West and with numerous European countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Poland) looks after the foreign relations of Poland. As of May 2024 the ministry was held by Radoslaw Sikorski.

History

Foreign policy topics are covered in the history articles:

Integration with the West and Europe

After regaining independence in 1989, Poland has ahead on its economic reintegration with the Western world. Poland also has been an active nation in advocating European integration. In 1994, Poland became an associate member of the European Union (EU) and its defensive arm, the Western European Union (WEU). In 1996, Poland achieved full OECD membership and submitted preliminary documentation for full EU membership. Poland formally joined the European Union in May 2004, along with the other members of the Visegrád Group.

NATO membership

Włodzimierz Cimoszewicz told a 2014 audience at the Wilson Center that Poland sought to join NATO as early as 1992. In 1997, Poland was invited in the first wave of NATO enlargement at the July 1997 NATO Madrid summit. In March 1999, Poland became a full member of NATO. Poland promoted its NATO candidacy through energetic participation in the Partnership for Peace (PfP) program and through intensified individual dialogue with NATO. Poland was a part of the multinational force in Iraq.

Diplomatic relations

List of countries which Poland maintains diplomatic relations with:

Bilateral relations

Multilateral

Africa

Americas

Asia

Europe

Oceania