Poland in talks with France over ‘fight against IS’

“We will support France and we will certainly not allow terrorism to win,” said Polish Defence Minister Antoni Macierewicz on Friday.

He told reporters that Poland has submitted a statement of readiness to assist in the fight against IS during a meeting of Defence Ministers of European Union countries, which took place in Brussels on 17 November.

“Talks with the Defence Minister of France – who formulated his expectations – are ongoing. When everything is finalised, we will inform the public,” explained Macierewicz.

He added that there is no doubt that Poland will support the efforts of France in the fight against IS.

“We will stand in solidarity, certainly not give in to terrorism; and especially we [will not allow] the political forces in the world, which give rise to terrorism, to win,” Macierewicz said.

Earlier, this week, Foreign minister Witold Waszczykowski confirmed that talks are under way about possible Polish support for the international coalition against the Islamic State.

On Friday Germany’s Bundestag approved military action against IS in Syria, meaning that jets, a frigate and up to 1,200 troops will shortly be sent to the region. (rg/rk)