embassy events 2009

Foreign Minister Sikorski Had First Meeting with Secretary Clinton in Washington

26 February 2009

Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (more photos)

Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski visited Washington, DC, on February 25 for his first meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. This was the first face-to-face meeting between FM Sikorski and his American counterpart since Clinton became the Obama Administration’s chief diplomat on January 20.  Clinton and Sikorsky talked to reporters for a brief moment before continuing their meeting behind closed doors. Secretary Clinton commented to the press before the meeting: “Poland is one of our closest allies, and our relationships between our two countries, particularly the Polish American community and the many contributions that they’ve made, make this an even more special partnership.”  U.S. Ambassador to Poland, Victor Ashe, said the meeting was another important milestone in further strengthening ties between the United States and Poland.  “The history of diplomatic relations between our countries dates back to the year 1919,” he said.  “As we enter the 90th year of diplomatic relations, this first meeting between Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, is the first step to ensure this relationship will thrive for the next 90 years and beyond.” Assistant Secretary Dan Fried, Ambassador Ashe, and Polish Ambassador to US Robert Kupiecki were also present during the meeting.