The Union Cabinet in India has approved Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in criminal matters between India and Poland on December 15, 2021.

Key Points
• This treaty intends to enhance capability and effectiveness of India and Poland in investigation and prosecution of crimes through mutual legal assistance. Under the terms of the treaty, crimes related to terrorism will also be investigated and prosecuted.

• In the context of transnational crime and its linkages to terrorism, the proposed Treaty will provide a broad legal framework for bilateral cooperation with Poland in investigation and prosecution of crime.
• Treaty will also provide a broad legal framework for bilateral cooperation with Poland in tracing, restraining, and confiscation of proceeds and instruments of crime.
• The treaty will increase effectiveness of India in tackling criminal activities involving Poland.

India-Poland relations

India and Poland share a long-standing friendly relationship. They established diplomatic relations in 1954. Indian Embassy opened in Warsaw in 1957. The two countries shared common ideological perceptions, based on their opposition to colonialism, imperialism and racism.

During the Communist era (1945–1989), bilateral relations between the two countries were close and cordial. The relationship continued to remain close after Poland chose the democratic path in 1989. A cordial political relationship has emerged in the 21st century, particularly after Poland joined the EU in 2004, and became one of India’s key economic partners in Central Europe.