On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the government and people of Poland on your Constitution Day.
When Poland adopted the first modern constitution in Europe, 233 years ago today, the friendship between our peoples was already well-established. That friendship, based on ties of family and shared values, has never been on firmer footing. We salute the Republic of Poland for your leadership in NATO, your multifaceted and committed support for Ukraine, and your dedication to defending democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.
This year, we also celebrate the 25th anniversary of Poland’s accession to NATO. President Biden commemorated this historic occasion when meeting with President Duda and Prime Minister Tusk in the White House on March 12 to underscore our two nations’ ironclad commitment to the NATO Alliance. In twenty-five short years, Poland has grown from a NATO aspirant to a country demonstrating stalwart leadership on NATO’s eastern flank, helping chart the course for the Alliance’s next 75 years. Poland’s welcome embrace of more than one million refugees from Ukraine will stand as a lasting testament to the kindness and generosity of the Polish people.
We join with you in celebrating this joyous occasion and look forward to many further centuries of friendship.
