On March 12, 1999, a historic moment unfolded as the Polish accession protocols were signed in Independence, Missouri, U.S.A, affirming Poland’s membership in the North Atlantic Alliance. Just days later, on March 16th, the Polish flag proudly rose at NATO headquarters in Brussels, symbolizing the nation’s full integration. To mark this special event, on Saturday, a gala celebrating the 25th anniversary of Poland’s accession to NATO was organized at the Grand Theater - National Opera in Warsaw. The event, organized by the Polish Defense Ministry, commenced at 5 p.m. Among the dignitaries who attended the event included Poland’s deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, and former heads of state. TVP World’s correspondent Owidiusz Nicieja was present on the spot and covered the event for us.
Following this, an official concert took place featuring performances by the symphony orchestra, soloists, choir, and ballet. The Representative Artistic Ensemble of the Polish Army (RZAWP) presented the audience with the tradition and history of Polish weapons up to the moment that resulted in Poland’s admission to NATO on March 12, 1999.
“This is not only a beautiful and important anniversary, but above all, it is a discussion about Poland’s security here and now. We must be prepared. There are three guarantees of security: a strong army, strengthened alliances, and a strong, resilient society united in action, and we strive for all of this,” said Poland’s Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
“This is in our national interest. We will do everything to ensure it remains this way. We are a loyal ally. We will fulfill all commitments, and expect all commitments toward us to be fulfilled,” he added.
“The decision to join the North Atlantic Treaty organization [NATO] was absolutely strategically important. Thanks to this, we can feel safer,” said Bronisław Komorowski, former President of Poland.
“Now, after 25 years we truly feel the importance of that success [joining NATO- TVP World]... We also know how valuable it is to be in the largest and most valuable peace oriented North Atlantic Alliance,” said Jerzy Buzek, former Prime Minister of Poland.
