The White House, President George W. Bush Click to print this document

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 17, 2002

Fact Sheet: U.S. - Poland Military Cooperation Initiative

Presidents Bush and Kwasniewski have agreed that the United States and Poland will develop a closer military relationship, one that will benefit both countries. The United States and Poland will establish a Military Cooperation Working Group to select specific areas for robust cooperation.

This initiative reflects the strategic importance of the Polish-American relationship and Poland's intention to transform its military into a 21st Century force -- much like the United States is transforming its own forces.

The United States and Poland will benefit from closer military cooperation. This cooperation, moreover, will demonstrate to other NATO Allies and nations aspiring to join the Alliance the possibilities and benefits of modernizing and transforming defense capabilities.

Aspects of the initiative could include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Establishing long-term partnerships between U.S. Army Europe units and selected Polish units.
  • Fostering deeper cooperation and interoperability between U.S. and Polish Special Forces.
  • Continuing and strengthening cooperation between the U.S. Navy and the Polish Navy, especially with regard to integrating the Perry class frigates into the Polish Navy.
  • Examining the potential for joint training between U.S. Marine Corps units and the Polish Marine Battalion. Encouraging greater interoperability in nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons defense by developing joint doctrine and taking advantage of training and exercise opportunities.
  • Seeking opportunities for greater cooperation in Missile Defense.
  • Working together to modernize Poland's defense acquisition process.

    The first meeting of the Military Cooperation Working Group on Transformation will establish a "short list" of near-term projects and opportunities and discuss future goals.

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